One of the first foods that signals the start of spring is the appearance of fresh asparagus at local farmers markets and grocery stores. Just as spring is a time of new beginnings, asparagus is one of those vegetables that I love to experiment with during this time of year.
And just as a spear is used as a weapon, the javelin shape of asparagus could be seen as a symbol for its age and disease-fighting abilities.
Asparagus is rich in health benefits
Loaded with nutrients: asparagus is a good source of fiber, folate, vitamins A, C, E and K, as well as chromium, a trace mineral that enhances insulin’s ability to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells.
Asparagus has a low intake, but provides valuable vitamins and minerals. In particular, they are an excellent source of folic acid and vitamin K, but also of vitamin C.
Folic acid, like vitamin C, is important for the function of the immune system. This vitamin is also essential for the development of the fetus’s neural tube.
Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism. In green asparagus the concentration of the valuable components contained is higher than in white asparagus.
This herbaceous plant, along with avocado, cabbage and Brussels sprouts, is a particularly rich source of glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens and other harmful substances like free radicals. This is why eating asparagus can help protect against and fight certain forms of cancer, such as bone, breast, colon, and lung cancers.
Asparagus is rich in antioxidants
ranking among the top fruits and vegetables capable of neutralizing free radicals and cell aging. This, according to preliminary research, can help slow down the aging process. Perhaps adding asparagus to the diet is a good idea.
Another anti-aging property of this delicious spring vegetable is that it can help our brains fight cognitive decline. Like green leafy vegetables, asparagus has a high folate content, which together with the vitamin B12 found in fish, poultry, meat, and dairy, helps prevent cognitive decline. (Cognitive decline is a memory and learning deficit that is not particularly severe in itself)
Another advantage of asparagus is that they have high levels of asparagine amino acids, which serve as a natural diuretic, and increased urination not only serves to release fluid, but helps rid the body of excess salts, making it particularly suitable for people who suffer from edema and high blood pressure. Consuming asparagus also helps flush out toxins in the kidneys and prevent kidney stones and those who have high blood pressure or other heart-related diseases.
Risks of eating asparagus
There are no major side effects of eating too much asparagus, but there can be some unpleasant side effects such as gas, and a noticeable smell of urine.
It is also possible to have an asparagus allergy, people who are allergic to lilies, onions, garlic (here in extra virgin oil) or chives, are more likely to be allergic to asparagus. Symptoms include a runny nose, hives, difficulty breathing, and/or swelling around the mouth and lips.
