Asparagus Information

Asparagus has always been used for health. In ancient times it was used as an aphrodisiac. The succulent , savory vegetable offers a stimulating blend of nutrients that could help boost energy, cleanse urinary tract and neutralize excess ammonia that can cause fatigue and sexual disinterest. 

Asparagus is high in vitamin K and folate (vitamin B9). The anti inflammatory nutrients in asparagus are high. Nutrients in vitamin C, beta carotene, vitamin E, and minerals of zinc, manganese and selenium. Other nutrients that asparagus contains are 

• asparagine an amino acid that helps in development and function of the brain
• chromium which helps insulin transport glucose
• glutathione that helps detoxify and destroy carcinogens

The best part is that asparagus has all these great nutrients and yet is extremely low in calories. In about 5 spears of asparagus there are only around 20 calories. There is no fat or sodium in asparagus that is also a great bonus. The eater can choose how they prepare or eat the asparagus raw. 

Health benefits of asparagus include:

• heart health due to both vitamin K that helps blood clot, vitamin B that helps regulate amino acids and soluble fiber that helps lower the risk of heart disease. The amino acid asparagine helps to flush your body of excess salt as well. The high level of anti oxidant can also help prevent heart disease
• Blood sugar is helped by asparagus to regulate it but if your blood sugar is high the vitamin B6 may affect blood sugar and should be avoided
• Type 2 diabetes can benefit from asparagus via its anti inflammatory properties and high levels of antioxidants. Asparagus can also help to improve insulin secretion and help lower risk of type 2 diabetes. 
• Want to stay young looking?? The antioxidant glutathione in asparagus can help slow the aging process Keep your brain young as well by eating asparagus. The folate in asparagus will work with the B12 to prevent cognitive decline.
• The antioxidant glutathione will also help protect your skin from sun damage and pollution. 
• Asparagus has the ability to act as a natural diuretic. Ridding the body of excess salt and fluid is as easy as eating a bit of asparagus. This will help relieve edema and prevent kidney stones. If you however, are suffering from uric acid then you should avoid asparagus. 
• Women of childbearing age can get their needed folate from asparagus as well. Folate can help decrease the risk of neural tube defects in fetuses. 
• The high amount of fiber and protein that is in asparagus can help stabilize digestion. Moving food through the process of digestion and providing relief from discomfort can be provided via asparagus.  
• Antioxidants and anti inflammatories are found in great quantities in asparagus. They have both been shown to help decrease risk of cancers. 

Side effects of asparagus include having gas as well as a possible strong odor to ones urine. There is also a possibility that one may be allergic to asparagus. Individuals who are allergic to other members of the lily family are often allergic to onions, garlic, chives and asparagus. Allergy symptoms include runny nose, hives, trouble breathing, and swelling around mouth and lips

Step 1:

To remove the woody ends, gently bend the end of each asparagus spear until it snaps naturally.

Step 2:

To cook, add the asparagus to a pan of boiling water. A frying pan is best as the spears will fit easily.

Step 3:

Cook for 2 minutes or until bright green. For a salad, run the spears quickly under cold water to refresh.