Red greens

[Non]

Do they have higher nutrient content than the regular leafy greens? I just found some red leaf kale being offered at this store I go to and I got some so I was wondering if many commonly used leafy greens also have a red variety,and if they might have higher nutrient content.

Possibly the red pigments contribute to higher antioxidant content?

[Arky]

That's an interesting question and I don't know a conclusive answer, but do bear in mind that many dark leafy greens do, in fact, contain numerous carotenoids, but the colour of the carotenoids is often masked by the chlorophyll pigment. For example, green kale is rich in lutein and beta carotene.


I'm not sure if the 'red/purple' colour of other kales is due to higher carotenoid (and/or anthocyanin) content, or if it's more to do with less chlorophyll to mask the colour of the carotenoids etc. Perhaps a combination of these factors.

Let me know what you find out!



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[maggiesdaddy]

I am also guessing that it is because of higher levels of carotenoids ... I also want to know what the conclusive reason it.

[13WaysToFeed]

Not sure if there is any truth to this. But my assumption is less green means less chlorophyll, so I always stick with green kale.

[Dent de Lion]

If memory serves, it's higher in some nutrients and lower in others. In general, I think it's best to consume a variety.