The Health Benefits of Asparagus

Asparagus is a great side dish that pairs well with many foods. Whether served next to a steak, in a salad, or with potatoes, its delicious and fresh flavour provides an added touch to any meal. Turns out, it also has some great health benefits, further adding to its good reputation. Firstly, it is a very nutrient dense food, especially compared to its calorie count. One cup of asparagus contains about 40 calories, which is very low. It also contains protein, fiber, and iron. That same amount of asparagus also provides about 1/5 of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C, 40% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin A, and almost all of the daily recommended amount of vitamin K. Vitamin K is incredibly important in reducing blood clots and keeping your bones healthy. Asparagus is also great for pregnant women as it is a great source of folate. However, folate is not only important for pregnant women, and is important for brain health too, making asparagus great for non-pregnant people as well. Additionally, it is rich in antioxidants, meaning it can help protect against chronic diseases. Because of its substantial amount of fiber, it can help keep the digestive system healthy. Because of other nutrients like potassium, asparagus can also be great in helping lower blood pressure. Its low calorie content makes it great for those who are trying to lose weight, as it is packed with nutrients but low in calories. Asparagine, an amino acid found in asparagus, is a form of natural diuretic, meaning it can help prevent things such as UTIs. Overall, asparagus is such a great addition to any diet, it could almost be considered a superfood!