Asparagus may help fight cancer, slim you down and potentially benefit your brain. Read more to uncover the benefits of eating asparagus.
Asparagus Nutrition
Here are the nutrition facts of one cup (135 g) of uncooked asparagus:
Calories: 27 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Total fat: 0.16 g
Fiber: 3 g (12% Daily Value)
Potassium: 273 mg (8% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 7.6 mg (13% Daily Value)
Vitamin K: 56.2 mcg (70% Daily Value)
Folate: 70.2mcg (18% Daily Value)
These vegetable spears are packed with nutrients, providing a good source of fiber, vitamin C and folate. It is also an excellent source of vitamin K, an essential nutrient for blood clotting and healthy bones. Notably, asparagus also contains chromium, a trace mineral that may enhance the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells—That's good news if you're watching your blood sugar levels.
1. May help lower blood pressure
Asparagus contains potassium, an important nutrient for keeping your heart, bones, kidneys and nerves functioning and healthy. You may be surprised to learn that this stalky vegetable also consists of a compound called asparaptine, which may help improve blood flow, in turn lowering blood pressure.
2. May help fight cancer
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.
3. Packed with antioxidants
Asparagus is one of the top-ranked vegetables for its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. Along with other potential anti-aging foods, asparagus may help slow the aging process and reduce inflammation.
4. May be a brain booster
Another anti-aging property of this delicious spring veggie is that it may help our brains fight cognitive decline. Like leafy greens, asparagus delivers folate, which works with vitamin B12—found in fish, poultry, meat and dairy—to reduce the risk of cognitive impairment. If you're 50-plus, be sure you're getting enough B12, as your ability to absorb it decreases with age. Learn about anti-aging foods with our best foods to help keep your brain young.
5. A natural diuretic
Asparagus contains high levels of amino acid asparagine, which serves as a natural diuretic, increasing urination and helping the body to get rid of excess salts. This is especially beneficial for people suffering from edema (an accumulation of fluids in the body's tissues) and those with high blood pressure or other heart-related diseases.
As you can see , you can add to your diet more healthy foods. So let’s try it.
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