Calories in Kale
The 'superfood' that's the same species as cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts
What makes kale so powerful?
Kale rode a marketing wave in the 2010s as the ultimate superfood, but it's the same species as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, just bred to emphasize the leaves rather than a flower head or bud. Like broccoli, kale contains glucosinolates that convert to beneficial compounds when chopped or chewed, triggering the same enzyme reaction. Kale is also one of the most concentrated dietary sources of vitamin K of any common food, with a single cup of cooked kale often providing several times the daily recommended amount, which matters specifically for people on blood-thinning medication, since vitamin K can interact with those drugs.
Massaging raw kale leaves with a little oil and lemon juice for a minute or two physically breaks down its tough cell walls, making it noticeably less bitter and easier to eat raw in salads. Light cooking also softens its texture and slightly reduces the bitterness.
Calories by Serving Size
Full Nutrition Facts
Per 100g — daily values based on a 2,000 calorie diet
How does Kale fit your daily goals?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Kale?
Kale contains 35 calories per 100g. A standard serving of 1 cup (20.6g) provides 7 calories. It is considered a very low-calorie food (under 50 kcal/100g), making it excellent for weight management.
How much protein does Kale have?
Kale provides 2.92g of protein per 100g, which is 6% of the 50g daily recommended value. It is not a primary protein source.
How many carbs are in Kale?
Kale contains 4.42g of carbohydrates per 100g . It also provides 4.1g of dietary fiber.
Is Kale good for weight loss?
Yes! Kale is very low in calories (35 kcal/100g) and can be eaten in generous portions even on a calorie-restricted diet. Its fiber content (4.1g/100g) also promotes fullness.
How do I track Kale calories accurately?
The easiest way to track kale is with CalRay. Simply snap a photo of your meal and the AI will automatically identify the food and calculate calories and macros based on the estimated portion size — no manual lookup required. You can also search by name and adjust gram weight manually.