Kale is a key ingredient to reclaiming our health and our food supply. A diet with more kale can help fight obesity, diabetes, cancer, depression, and dementia. An astounding 62 percent of adult Americans were overweight in 2000, and that figure has been on the rise every year. The US has 120 million adults with “pre-diabetes” and type 2 diabetes is raging out of control around the world. It is the fastest-spreading medical condition of our time and by 2020 it will affect one-in-three people worldwide.

We also face a mental health crisis with rates of depression, anxiety, dementia, autism and attention deficient disorder soaring. Antidepressants are the top class of prescribed medications in the country and 25% of women will be diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives.

Kale is a nutrient-dense, delicious superfood that can help turn around America’s health crisis. National Kale Day is a celebration that aims to increase awareness, access, and education about the positive health benefits of eating a more nutrient-dense, plant-based diet. We hope to empower America to grow, eat, and share kale while supporting local farmers and school gardens. With tools for educators, health care providers, places of worship, and parents, we will facilitate a national, annual celebration of kale.

We ask for your support and that you proclaim the first Wednesday of every October National Kale Day. As you and the First Lady are growing organic kale in the White House garden, we would be honored for you to participate on October 1, 2014.

Sincerely,

Drew Ramsey, MD and Jennifer Iserloh