Asparagus is a very healthy, tasty and popular vegetable used in dishes around the world, especially frittatas, pastas and stir-fries. It’s also low in calories and packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
This vegetable is cheap, easy to prepare, perfect for all seasons and can be eaten raw or added to your favourite meals.
This article covers 5 surprising health benefits all backed by science.
1. It can improve digestive health. It is high in insoluble fibre which supports regular bowel movements and adds bulk to your stools.
2. It has a lot of minerals, including:
- Thiamine: enables the body to convert carbohydrates to energy.
- Potassium: helps your muscles to contract and your nerves to function properly.
- Folic acid: helps the body to produce healthy blood cells which carry oxygen around the body.
It also has a lot of vitamins, including:
- Vitamin A: important for your vision, immune system and reproduction.
- Vitamin B6: important for normal brain development and keeping a healthy immune and nervous system.
- Vitamin C: necessary for the development, growth and repair of body tissues.
- Vitamin K: plays a role in regulating blood calcium, blood clotting, and bone metabolism.
3. It is low in calories and will help you to lose weight.
4. It is a good source of anti-oxidants, which protect cells from free radicals.
5. It can help to lower your cholesterol and blood pressure.
What are the risks?
It is recommended that anyone taking blood thinners not consume too many foods containing vitamin K, including asparagus. This is because vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting.
It’s best to talk to your doctor before changing your diet if you are on medication or are concerned about the side effects of consuming asparagus.
In summary
Asparagus is good for you in moderation. It is more nutritious when eaten in its natural state, cooked or steamed rather than pickled or treated as a snack.
Some studies have shown it lowers blood pressure and cholesterol. It is high in potassium, fibre and other beneficial minerals and vitamins.
So, be creative and add them to your diet!
