Kale is useful against disorders of the Immune System and the Digestive System
It is good for disorders such as stress, cancer protection and low immunity. Like other members of the cruciferous family of vegetables they have been shown to have protective powers against cancer. (Other crucifers include brussels sprouts, cauliflower, radishes, horseradish, cabbage, spring greens, turnips, brocolli and kale).
Kale is very rich in carotenoids, including betacarotene, a strong cancer protector and have some Iron, Vitamin C and folate which also help anaemia, protect against birth defects, and boost energy, specially if you steam and eat the young leaves. There is also a high level of chemicals called glucosinolates, a cancer protective agent particularly effective against colon and breast cancers.
The total antioxidant activity of a food is tested using a measure called the ORAC scale. To counteract the harmful oxidising effects of everything the average person eats, drinks and breathes in a day, around 1650 ORAC units are required in the food and drink consumed daily. Scientists believe that over 80% of the World's population actually fails to get more than 800 ORAC units per day, leaving the body open to damage by oxidation, which can ultimately lead to heart, liver, digestion and kidney diseases and most importantly cancer. Kale contains around 1770 ORAC units.
Nutrients
Japan eats 4 times as much glucosinolates per day as the UK, and has a very low level of colon cancer.