Asparagus: 5 properties, benefits and nutritional value

Egyptian and Greek civilizations used asparagus as food and offerings to their gods in ancient times; instead, asparagus (Asparagus Officinalis) properties are now recognized in medicine.

Until the 19th century, the only type was the green one. Thanks to a change in cultivation, the white variety has emerged, both of which can be beneficial to health. In this article, the therapeutic benefits of this vegetable will be delved into.

asparagus nutritional information

Every 100 grams of asparagus contains:

• Calories: 18 kcal
• Protein: 2.7g
• Carbohydrates: 1.1 g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Calcium : 22mg
• Iron: 1.1mg
• Potassium : 207mg
• Phosphorus : 59mg

What is asparagus good for? Properties

According to an article from the Spanish Nutrition Foundation, asparagus is a source of vitamins, especially green ones. Therefore, find out what its properties and benefits are below:

Asparagus Properties

• They are diuretics.
• It has laxative effects.
• They are good antioxidants.
• It has antiviral properties.

Health benefits of asparagus

This vegetable is highly beneficial to health, not only in the kitchen. Its benefits cover many areas of medicine, as evidenced by the results revealed by many medical studies. 

It is diuretic

The composition is mostly water; therefore, it facilitates the elimination of liquids. 

In addition, by providing asparagine, asparagus helps to induce urine production.

Regulates intestinal transit

According to a study carried out by the National University of Pusan in South Korea, asparagus can regulate intestinal transit since fiber is present in its composition.

Its chemical properties prevent constipation, hemorrhoidal inflammations, and diverticula in the colon.

 It is antioxidant

Regarding its composition of lignans, folates, and flavonoids, the Spanish Nutrition Foundation maintains that these plant compounds’ structure, similar to that of estrogens, have the antioxidant capacity to combat the effects caused by free radicals.

Promote cognitive function

Asparagus has a good dose of folic acid, which is why it can improve the health of pregnant women and contribute to the excellent development of the fetus. In addition, it has sound effects on the brain, as demonstrated by a study carried out by the University of Chile.

The nutritional composition of this vegetable, which has vitamins A, C, E, and K, chromium, trace elements, fiber, and folic acid, effectively reduces the risk of cognitive impairment.

Beneficial for the bones

Thanks to the vitamin K they provide, the bones are helped to stay strong and healthy.

It is an effective antiviral

The high content of nutrients they possess favors the immune system, being very practical to avoid colds and viral or bacterial diseases.

How to use asparagus?

It is usual to use them in the daily diet. However, the correct way to use them to treat health conditions is generally unknown. Do not hesitate to consult with a medical professional about the use of asparagus in the medicinal field.

Now, its use in medicines has formed a constantly growing market. For this reason, in pharmacies and natural product stores, you usually find asparagus in the following presentations.

• Weight Loss Supplements. They are used to reduce the formation of fat. Commonly, these plugins have precise instructions on how to use them.
• Capsules. Asparagus extract capsules promote optimal wellness throughout the body because it is an alkaline food and provides healthy amounts of vitamins A, C, K, calcium, and magnesium.

Advantages and disadvantages of asparagus

The Faculties of Pharmacy of the University of Granada and the Complutense University of Madrid have revealed that they prevent the appearance of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. In what follows, some of its advantages and disadvantages will be discussed.

Advantages

• They contain cellulose, which acts as an excitant for the intestine, speeding up the work of the large intestine.
• The B vitamins in asparagus support brain and nervous system functions and keep energy levels high.

Disadvantages

• Eating asparagus intensifies the smell of urine, but it is harmless.
• Ingestion can generate increased intestinal gas.

• Since it contains raffinose, a carbohydrate that needs to be fermented, excessive consumption of asparagus can be counterproductive for people with kidney stones.

Asparagus is allied to prevent hundreds of diseases, adding it in culinary form or through pharmaceutical presentations can contribute to your good health.