Asparagus is a food that can be tricky to love. While asparagus does have a very distinctive flavor that might be considered an acquired taste, it also boasts a wide range of health benefits that might convince you to give it another try. Plus, you can enjoy it in numerous ways that don’t involve bottled water (we’re looking at you Whole Foods). When grilled or roasted, thin stalks of asparagus can become a tasty fixture on the dinner table during the spring season, delivering a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, E, and K along with fiber, folate, and chromium. Keep reading to discover more of the health benefits that might have you picking up a bundle of asparagus on your next grocery run.
Cancer-Fighting Goodness
Cancer is caused by cell mutations that have been linked to the presence of free radicals in the body. These dangerous compounds have a natural enemy in detoxifying nutrients like glutathione, which is abundant in asparagus. On top of that, asparagus has plenty of antioxidants that may help fight the aging process.
Increased Brain Power
Vegetarians should consider eating lots more asparagus, because it is rich in vitamin B12, which many people get in their diet through meat and fish. This nutrient is a brain-power booster that can prevent cognitive decline and increase mental flexibility.
Diuretic Qualities
Diuretics are good for the body, because they help fight off fluid retention and excess salts that lead to inflammation. Asparagus is a natural diuretic, so it is great for those with edemas, hypertension, heart disease, and other inflammation-related disorders. If you notice a distinctive asparagus-like aroma when you urinate after eating asparagus, you’ll know that you’ve done your body good with this underrated superfood!
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