Health Benefits of Asparagus
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Jul 05, 2021 • 3 min Read
Asparagus is delicious, incredibly nutrient-dense, and low in calories. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, disease-fighting antioxidants, and fiber. The medicinal effect of this plant extends from its root to shoot. Its usage has been scientifically proven and its usage in indigenous medicine.
It can be consumed raw or cooked on its own or added to soups, stews, and salads.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of this crunchy green vegetable, from Organic Facts:
1. Helps in Pregnancy
The high folate content in asparagus aids in reducing the danger of low birth weight and birth defects. Folate is essential for the growth of the fetus. It also helps in reducing the complication of edema or retention of water in the body tissues owing to its diuretic effect.
2. Reduces Blood Pressure
According to a study, the bottom-stem consumption of asparagus significantly reduced the subjects’ systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This result supports the possibility that asparagus cladophylls and bottom-stems differentially improve hypertension and hyperglycemia.
3. Improves Digestion
Asparagus aids in the improved absorption of nutrients, good provider of dietary fiber, and has laxative properties that help in bowels function, bloating and constipation. It is widely recommended in Ayurveda therapy for its effectiveness in curing diarrhea, dysentery, and dyspepsia.
4. Anticancer Potential
According to a study published in Cancer Letters, crude saponins found in the shoots of asparagus have exhibited anti-tumor activity. Takeaways from another study could also offer a potential dietary intervention strategy to manage human colorectal cancer cells. Asparagus also helps in elevating the levels of glutathione, an antioxidant and detoxifying compound.
5. Helps in Weight Loss
According to a study, supplementary intake of asparagus facilitated improvement in the mean weight, blood pressure, physical and emotional well-being, and the quality of life of the participants.
6. Anti-diabetic Properties
As per a study, asparagus extract has anti-diabetic properties and improves insulin secretion. Also, in another study, asparagus improves early diabetic nephropathy (a kidney disease).
7. Eye Care
Asparagus is a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision. The presence of antioxidants helps in defending the retina from the damage caused by the oxygen-free radicals, and with the amino acid glutathione, it reduces the risk of eye ailments such as cataracts and night blindness.
8. Relieves Depression
Scientific research has shown the efficacy of asparagus as an anti-anxiety and anti-depressant drug. It helps in enhancing the memory, increases the production, and secretion of estrogen, and has a revitalizing and calming effect on the nervous system.
9. Treats Urinary Tract Infection
Research studies show that asparagus possesses an anti-urolithiatic effect, which helps treat urinary tract infections. With vegetable’s diuretic properties, the consumption of asparagus increases the frequency and volume of urination. This helps detoxify and flush the toxic waste out of the body.
10. Improves Fertility
In Ayurvedic therapy, asparagus is known as Shatavari which has an aphrodisiac properties, used to regulate the hormones, and cure male and female sexual disorders. It has anti-anxiety properties and helps in curing physical and mental debility in males. It also helps in enhancing the libido and boosts sperm count and its motility.
Indeed, asparagus can be considered a power food. Go start adding this nutritious veggie in your daily diet and enjoy its benefits!
Stay healthy and safe!
