Asparagus Benefits

Asparagus Benefits. Here is all you need to know about this awesome vegetable

Good asparagus needs minimal treatment and is best eaten with none other ingredients…

Asparagus, officially known as Asparagus officinalis, is a member of the lily family. This popular vegetable comes in a variety of colors, including green, white and purple.

This garden plant originated in the eastern Mediterranean countries and traces of wild varieties have been discovered in Africa. Archaeologists believe that it was also cultivated in Egypt. In ancient Greece, asparagus was considered to be a plant with sacred and aphrodisiac virtues and the Greeks were interested in its biological and pharmaceutical qualities. Hippocrates, the ancient Greek doctor, used asparagus to treat diarrhea and pains of the urethra. This plant, in fact, contains asparagines which is known for its diuretic properties. The Romans, for their part, appreciated the plants gastronomic qualities. They ate it as an entrée or as a vegetable accompanying fish. Asparagus was largely forgotten during the Middle Ages but continued to be cultivated by the Arabs. Caesar’s legions returning from the Orient brought the asparagus back to Europe.

Asparagus is one of the most nutritionally valuable vegetables. It is the best vegetable provider of folic acid. Folic acid is necessary for blood cell formation and growth, as well as liver disease prevention. Asparagus is very low in calories, contains no fat or cholesterol, and is very low in sodium. Asparagus is a great source of potassium, fiber, and rutin, a compound that strengthens the walls of capillaries. It also provides balanced amounts of vitamins C, A, B6 riboflavin, and thiamine, as well as iron. The amino acid asparagine gets its name from asparagus, the asparagus plant being rich in this compound. Asparagus rhizomes and roots are used to treat urinary tract infections, as well as kidney and bladder stones.

• Asparagus is low in calories and packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
• Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable that is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, especially folate and vitamins A, C and K.
• Asparagus is a good source of antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, flavonoids and polyphenols. Antioxidants prevent the accumulation of harmful free radicals and may reduce your risk of chronic disease.
• As a good source of fiber, asparagus promotes regularity and digestive health and may help reduce your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.
• Asparagus is high in folate (vitamin B9), an important nutrient that helps reduce the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy.
• Asparagus contains potassium, a mineral that can help lower high blood pressure. In addition, animal research has found that asparagus may contain an active compound that dilates blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure.
• Asparagus has a number of features that make it a weight-loss friendly food. It’s low in calories, high in water and rich in fiber.
• Asparagus is a nutritious and tasty addition to any diet. It’s low in calories and a great source of nutrients, including fiber, folate and vitamins A, C and K.

Additionally, eating asparagus has a number of potential health benefits, including weight loss, improved digestion, healthy pregnancy outcomes and lower blood pressure. Plus, it’s inexpensive, easy to prepare and makes a delicious addition to a number of recipes.