Health Benefits of Asparagus
For centuries, Asparagus has been incorporated into the diets of many cultures due to its outstanding health benefits. A regular serving of asparagus delivers potent detoxification and anti-ageing properties.
In composition, asparagus is low in both calories and carbohydrates, but relatively high in protein. It is an excellent source of Vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, Vitamin A, and a source of riboflavin, thiamine, B6, fiber, niacin, phosphorus and iron.
In traditional medicine, asparagus has been recognized for its cooling properties. It has been used in the treatment of arthritis, cancers, hypertension, and has been used as a strong diuretic. Asparagus is also recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Preventing Birth Defects
The adequate intake of folate (a B vitamin commonly known as folic acid in supplement form) is critical in the prevention of birth defects, such as neural tube defect. Folate consumption is critical for women who are regnant or planning on becoming pregnant. Folate deficiency is associated with the increase risk of birth defects, such as neural tube defect and Spina Bifida.
Reduce Heart Disease
Folate promotes the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that a deficiency of folate, which causes the accumulation of the amino acid homocysteine in the body, significantly increases the risk for heart disease. Homocysteine promotes atherosclerosis by promoting the deterioration of arterial walls as well as promoting blood clot formation.
A Natural Detox and Diuretic
The mineral composition of asparagus makes it a very potent natural detoxifying vegetable. Asparagus is a good source of potassium and is low in sodium. Asparagus also contains the amino acid asparagine, which causes a diueretic effect in the body. Asparagus is also a source of fiber, which acts to cleanse the body of waste. For centuries, asparagus has been used to treat problems involving inflammation, such as arthritis and rheumatism.
Food for Healthy Gut Flora
Asparagus contains inulin fiber, a prebiotic carbohydrate. Inulin actively promotes the health-promoting friendly bacteria in our large intestine. Studies on inulin have shown promising results in the lowering of triglycerides in the system, the reduction of risk of colon cancer, the increase absorption of minerals, such as calcium, and the aiding in body waste detoxification.
Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Ageing Properties
Asparagus is an excellent source of Vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, vitamin A. Asparagus is a very good source of numerous B vitamins – including vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B6 – as well as dietary fiber, manganese, copper, phosphorus, potassium and protein. It is also very high in glutathione, an amino acid compound which helps with the anti-ageing process.
Bone Health
Asparagus has vitamin K which studies have shown can help prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Vitamin K aids in bone formation and repair.
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