kale growing in the field

Kale: Whole Food Profile

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WholisticMatters


Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. viridis) is a cruciferous vegetable associated with the production of detoxification enzymes, antioxidant properties, anti-microbial, and anti-carcinogenic activity. Kale is a staple vegetable in healthy diets, rich in glucosinolates and a concentrated punch of essential nutrients as part of the whole-food matrix.

Key Nutrients

Percentages shown as %DV per dry serving of 2.18g kale (equal to 1 cup raw chopped)

Key Phytonutrients

Carotenoids

Yellow and green antioxidants with anti-cancer potential and may lower risk of macular degeneration

  • Beta-carotene (4.626 mcg/g)**
  • Lutein (38.4 mcg/g)**

Chlorophyll

Green pigment in plants with potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-bacterial activity 

Lignans

Polyphenolic compounds metabolized by gut bacteria that support antioxidant activity

Myrosinase

Enzyme found in plant tissue that initiates conversion of glucosinolates to bioactive isothiocyanates

Glucosinolates

Sulfur-containing secondary metabolites found in cruciferous vegetables, associated with antioxidant activity such as cardio-protection and detoxification support. Explore the comparison of Kale vs. Brussels Sprouts for more phytonutrient insights.

Flavonols

Promote antioxidant activity and vascular health

  • Kaempferol (267.4 mcg/g)*
  • Quercetin(77.1 mcg/g)*

Total Phenolic Content

Packed with polyphenols and flavonoids, the total phenolic content in kale supports liver function, helps regulate endocrine activity, and promotes digestion through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways.

  • Total Phenolics 8mg/g**

*Data is mean values from Phenol-Explorer Database1

**Data on file with WholisticMatters. Values subject to change based on strain and experimental methods

 

Did you know WholisticMatters is powered by Standard Process? Learn more about Standard Process’ whole food-based nutrition philosophy.

 
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REFERENCES

Rothwell, J.A., et al., Phenol-Explorer 3.0: a major update of the Phenol-Explorer database to incorporate data on the effects of food processing on polyphenol content. Database, 2013. 2013: p. bat070-bat070.