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The Tui Veggie & Garden Club

 

Kale

Kale is considered a ‘superfood’ because it is high in vitamins A, K, C,minerals of manganese, magnesium, and calcium, and it is almost a complete protein. It also has excellent levels of tryptophan which helps make the ‘feel good’ hormone serotonin.
 

In just one cup of raw Kale you can consume nearly 90% of the recommended daily amount (RDA) of vitamin C. That same cup of Kale also delivers 10% of your RDA of calcium.
 

Nutrients explained:
Vitamin A neutralizes free radicals and protects cells from differentiating (which is the first stage of cancer). Vitamin A is also an important vitamin for skin health helping to treat acne and dry skin conditions.
 

Vitamin K is important for healthy bones and blood. It helps reduce spider veins and hastens the healing of wounds and bruises.

Manganese is important for building the protective coatings of our cells, therefore vital for building our immunity through keeping the nasties out.
 

Vitamins A and K are not destroyed by the cooking process but it is important to utilize the cooking liquid for maximum health benefits. Think soups, casseroles and vegetable stock.
 

Vitamin C is damaged by the cooking process so add the fresh baby leaves to your salads.
 

Add Kale to your garden now, it is easy to grow year round and suits most soils.

Information supplied by Steph Askeur
Fresh-cut enthusiast