Kale: Raw or Cooked for Smoothies?

Kale rocks! We know this! That why so many of us are quick to grab a handful and throw it into our smoothies for an extra nutritional punch! BUT did you know that too much RAW kale and other cruciferous vegetables may have some not-so beneficial side effects to your health, particularly if you have pre-existing thyroid problems? I didn't know this until recently!

WHATTTT? I know-- but we all know that too much of anything is usually not good, right?

This is NOT to scare you and this is NOT to discourage you from avoiding the occasional raw kale salad or from eating Kale all together. Note that you likely have to consume A LOT of raw kale and other "goitrgoenic" veggies for it to negatively affect you and likely have to have a pre-existing thyroid problem. Wait, back up...Goitro-what? Goitrogenic.... Kale is what is referred to as a "Goitrogenic vegetable". Goitrogens are chemicals that are naturally found in many plant-based foods. Consuming large amounts of these substances on the reg, may hinder your thyroid function. To put it simply, foods that contain goitrogens prevent your body from using iodine how it should, thereby disrupting thyroid function. They actually prevent the release of thyroid hormone by your thyroid gland and as a result, can cause a "goiter" which is an enlarged thyroid. Because they have anti-thyroid properties, if you already have an underactive thyroid or hypothyrodism, this can be more of a concern. GOOD NEWS...we can drastically minimize this concern all together by COOKING GOITROGENIC VEGGIES! Yes, it is that simple. Boil your kale until tender, pat dry and store in zip lock baggies in the freezer. When you are ready to make your smoothie, pull out your frozen pre-portioned kale and VOILA! Another benefit of cooking kale is its ease on your digestive system. Drawback is that is does decrease some of the nutritional value. So be sure not to boil too long!

I started boiling and freezing my kale simply because I drink a greens drink daily. I also am sure to include steamed, baked and sauteed veggies for a balance.

If you have any questions or concerns, especially if you have thyroid problems, reach out to your Dr. or nutritionist for more info.