Asparagus Health Benefits
Asparagus is considered to be one of the delicacies of the vegetable world. This herbaceous plant along with avocado, kale and Brussels sprouts is a particularly rich source of glutathione, a detoxifying compound that helps break down carcinogens and other harmful compounds like free radicals.
This is why eating asparagus may help protect against and fight certain forms of cancer, such as bone, breast, colon, larynx and lung cancers.
It contains high levels of the amino acid asparagines, which serves as a natural diuretic, and increased urination not only releases fluid but helps rid the body of excess salts.
This is especially beneficial for people who suffer from oedema (an accumulation of fluids in the body’s tissues) and those who have high blood pressure or other heart-related diseases.
Asparagus contains a unique carb called inulin, which remains undigested until it reaches the large intestine, where it helps to absorb nutrients better, and cut the risk of colon cancer.
People who are sensitive to other vegetables belonging to the Liliaceae family (such as onions, garlic, and chives) should be cautious as they are at a higher risk of being allergic to asparagus.
Although it’s available all year round, asparagus usually is most found and best in spring and is harvested when it is about 6 to 8 inches tall.
The diuretic and alkaline properties of asparagus help prevent or dissolve kidney stones. It helps break up oxalic acid crystals formed in the kidney.
The healthful minerals in asparagus juice make it an important diet for people who are controlling their blood sugar levels.
However, it is not to be taken by people with advanced kidney diseases.
Asparagus is a prime source of anti-oxidant and glutathione that can help prevent the dreaded cancer.
Fresh asparagus also contains fair amounts of anti-oxidant vitamins such as vitamin-C, vitamin-A, and vitamin-E.
Regular consumption of foods rich in these vitamins helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals from the body.