About Asparagus
Asparagus Belonging to the lily family, asparagus is appreciated worldwide for its medicinal properties. The name comes from the Greek word meaning “tree”. All parts of the asparagus plant, from the roots to the shoots, have medicinal properties.
It has been used for a long time and its benefits have been tested and proven in science and other forms of medicine. There are more than 300 species of asparagus plants worldwide.
It usually comes in 3 shades – green, white or purple. The white variety grows in the shade and therefore lacks chlorophyll. Purple asparagus gets its color from the presence of phytochemicals and anthocyanins. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of eating asparagus and its uses.
Physical description
Asparagus species can be established or climbing, and many different species or small plants. The roots of the rhizome-like, or sometimes tuberous, give rise to prominent fern branches.
True leaves are reduced to small scales. Most species are dioecious (individuals are either male or female) with small greenish-yellow flowers in the spring followed by red fruits in the fall. Genus members are characterized by the presence of cladodes, which are the leaf-like parts in the axils of true leaves.
Nutritional benefits of asparagus
Listed among the top 20 foods on the Nutrient Density Index (ANDI), asparagus has many nutritional benefits. Asparagus is full of essential vitamins, minerals and protein. The various vitamins in asparagus are vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K.
Also, asparagus contains many important minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, zinc, selenium and potassium. In addition to all the vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for our health, asparagus also contains dietary fiber.
Asparagus is also low in calories and cholesterol so it will not affect your health in any way. Including asparagus in your diet can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and even some types of cancer.
Health Benefits
Asparagus is full of antioxidants
Asparagus, especially purple asparagus, contains pigments called anthocyanins, which give fruits and vegetables their red, blue and purple colors. Anthocyanins also have antioxidant effects that can help your body fight harmful radicals, according to a 2020 study in the journal Antioxidants.4
Asparagus contains vitamin E
Asparagus is a source of vitamin E, another important antioxidant. This vitamin helps boost the immune system and protects cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. Research is still trying to determine whether vitamin E can prevent cancer, heart disease, dementia, liver disease and stroke.
Asparagus is good for stomach health
A 2018 article in the journal Current Development in Nutrition describes a prebiotic found in asparagus called inulin that benefits gut health. For starters, inulin supports a healthy balance of good bacteria, also known as probiotics. This reduces gas and helps you digest your food better.9
Inulin also does something else. Since it’s a soluble fiber, it draws water into your stomach, softening your stool and making it easier to pass, the article said. In other words, eating more asparagus can help keep your bowels regular and prevent constipation.
