In this blog, I wanted to spotlight the health benefits of asparagus.
I don’ know about you, but I love asparagus. It is easy to make, has a bold, distinct flavor and is packed with nutrients that your body needs to function optimally. It’s no wonder many people enjoy eating asparagus. Asparagus contains plenty of good-for-you vitamins and minerals including: Vitamin A, C, E, K, and B6, as well as folate, copper, calcium, protein, and fiber.¹ Like Kale, asparagus is rich in antioxidants and can help your body fight the damaging affects of free radicals.
Asparagus also contains iron, which is especially important for those who suffer with iron deficiency anemia or are iron deficient. Asparagus has numerous other health benefits, as well.
Health Benefits Of Asparagus
Aids In Weight Loss
Asparagus is low in both fat and calories, so it makes a good snacking vegetable or side dish. Asparagus is high in fiber too, so it helps in the digestion process and triggers satiety, which makes you feel full faster, unlike some other foods that contain empty calories. Asparagus is also a natural diuretic and helps rid the body of excess salt and fluid, which can sometimes build up and increase your body weight by several pounds.
Helps Fight Cancer
Asparagus is rich in glutathione, which is a simple molecule crucial in helping you stay healthy and preventing disease. Glutathione is composed of protein and amino acids that work to detoxify your body and help destroy carcinogens that may be present. Glutathione is a paramount component for proper immune function and helps control inflammation in the body. It is also a key component for cancer prevention, heart disease, dementia and more.
Rich in Vitamin E
While asparagus contains a number of antioxidants, vitamin E is one that stands out. That’s because asparagus is rich in vitamin E, which strengthens your immune system. It also helps balance your hormones, improves vision, strengthens muscle and more.
Helps Boost Your Mood
Asparagus is rich folate, which is has been shown to uplift your spirit and prevent irritability and crabbiness. In fact, doctors often times prescribe folate, as well as vitamin B12 to patients suffering with depression. Asparagus also contains tryptophan, which is an essential amino acid that helps boosts mood.
Origin of Aspargus
Asparagus was first harvested in Greece some 2500 years ago. Crops of asparagus gradually spread to other parts of Europe, Asia and Africa, where they consumed for both taste and natural healing properties. Today you can find asparagus in a variety of locations including Japan, China and the United States.
Many people like to grow this tasty vegetable in their garden or find it at a nearby farmers market or grocery store.
Ways To Include Asparagus In Your Diet
There are many ways you can include asparagus in your diet. Some people enjoy eating asparagus as a snack. You can munch on it alone or find a favorite dip to enhance the flavor. Many people enjoy eating it cooked, as well. It is delicious sauteed in a pan with a little olive oil and seasoning, or baked in the oven with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. You can also add lemon, paprika, or pepper flakes to spice it up. Additionally, you can add asparagus to salads, eggs or other side dishes.
Thanks for reading!
Barb
Source:
¹”“10 Reasons to Eat More Asparagus.” Health.com, www.health.com/nutrition/asparagus-health-benefits#asparagus-benefits-opener.
2Babcock, Jillian. “Asparagus Nutrition, Health Benefits, & Recipes.” Dr. Axe, 21 June 2017, draxe.com/asparagus-nutrition/.
