Did you know kale is in season? Kale is considered one of nature’s most powerful superfoods. Chock full of Vitamins A, C, K; cancer-preventing compounds sulforaphane, isothiocyanate and indoles, fiber, B6 and calcium it’s no wonder Americans are going nuts over kale. Considered a cruciferous vegetable, kale along with these other cruciferous vegetables, is known for its amazing health benefits.
Cruciferous Vegetables
- Arugula
- Bok choy
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Chinese cabbage
- Collard greens
- Daikon radish
- Horseradish
- Kale
- Kohlrabi
- Land cress
- Mustard greens
- Radish
- Rutabaga
- Shepherd’s purse
- Turnip
- Watercress
Kale and other cruciferous vegetables are being promoted for uses in smoothies, salads and dishes throughout the American diet as a health food but be careful with how much you ingest and how it’s prepared. Raw kale, like all the cruciferous vegetables, have natural chemicals in them called goitrogens that block thyroid production. To reduce the goitrogen levels, especially if you have any kind of thyroid issues, you must cook them. Anyone who eats too many of these vegetables in raw form may be at risk of hypothyroidism or making their current condition worse. In fact, people who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism would be smart to stick to cooked cruciferous vegetables.
Cooking will de-active most of the goitrogens and it also takes away any bitterness in the greens. Submerging the kale in boiling water for 1 minute should do the trick. Another tasty option is to sautee the greens in a little coconut oil until they are soft. Kale chips made by roasting kale in the oven makes a great snack for the entire family.
Kale season is short so enjoy the best tasting kale this time of year but be careful to make sure you are not overdoing kale or any of these cruciferous vegetables in raw form. If you suffer from hypothyroidism limit raw cruciferous vegetables to a few times per week to be on the safe side.
Are you looking to transform your health? Mary works with clients all over the country developing personalized nutrition and exercise plans for weight loss and health. If you’re ready to get started on your journey to health and wellness contact her today!
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