5 health benefits of Asparagus

The popular vegetable officially known as Asparagus officinalis, comes in different colours and can be used in making a whole lot of dishes from different parts of the world.

Asparagus is a member of the lily family and is filled with essential vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants. It is also really low in calories.

Here are a list of some of the benefits of Asparagus.

1. High in nutrients with low calories

Asparagus has a substantial amount of nutrients and is really low in calories which makes it very healthy to eat especially when you are on a diet. It contains protein, fibre, fat, vitamin c, vitamin a, vitamin k, vitamin e, folate, potassium, phosphorus and many more. is low in calories but boasts an impressive nutrient profile.

It helps in blood clotting due to the presence of vitamin K and plays a major part in cell growth and formation because it is high in folate.

2. Improves Digestive Health

Asparagus is a good source of fibre, it promotes regularity and digestive health and also reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Its high level of insoluble fibre supports regular bowel movements while the soluble fibre strengthens the immune system and produces essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and K2.

3. Weight-loss

Asparagus contains a really low amount of calories which means an individual can consume a substantial amount of it without taking in a lot of calories. It is high in water (94%) and rich in fibre which makes it a low calorie and water-rich food, an essential part of a weight loss diet.

4. Anti-oxidants

Like other green vegetables, Asparagus contains a high amount of antioxidants like flavonoids, polyphenols, glutathione, vitamin C, E and K. Antioxidants are compounds that help protect your cells from the harmful effects of free radicals and oxidative stress.

The antioxidants help protect the cells and prevent the accumulation of harmful free radicals. It also reduces the risk of heart attacks and chronic diseases.

5. Easy fit in any diet

Asparagus is very delicious and can be easily added to your meal which makes perfect sense in addition to it been highly nutritious.

The highly affordable vegetable can be used in making various dishes like omelettes, pasta, stir fry, salad, frittatas and can also be served as a side dish too. It can be grilled, boiled, steamed, roasted and also sautéd too.