Asparagus inspires gentle thoughts. – Charles Lamb, poet, 1775-1834

Low in carbs and sodium but full vitamin A, C, E, K, zinc, folate, calcium, manganese, potassium, selenium, (phew!) asparagus is vital for a healthy and strong immune system. This springy green vegetable is high in fiber and protein, and has the ability to stabilize blood sugars and digestion, as well as prevent unpleasant issues like constipation.

Of course, asparagus is notorious for making our urine smell much stronger than usual, but the benefits far outweigh this tiny side effect.

A few more nourishing tidbits about asparagus:

It’s rich in vitamin K

Vitamin K is a major blood clotting agent. It can also improve bone health and heart health.

It’s high in antioxidants

Antioxidants have been shown to slow the aging process, reduce the risk of cancer, support detoxification of the liver, and protect against heart disease and stroke. Asparagus can counteract the damage done by damaging sources like blue light, sun exposure, poor diet, smoking, certain medications, chemical exposure, toxicity, and stress.

It feeds the digestive tract

Asparagus contains inulin, a prebiotic which does not break down in the digestive tract. Instead, it passes into our large intestine, where it becomes food for our healthy bacteria, which is essential for proper nutrient absorption. Remember, 90% of our gut produces serotonin, our happy hormone! So of course we want to feed our good bacteria what it wants. A healthy gut = a healthy immune system.

It’s a great source of fiber

The fiber in asparagus helps to improve digestion, because it helps to move food through your gut. In your gut, asparagus is a soluble fiber that digests into a sort of gluey mass and traps sugars, bacteria, and toxins, and helps move them through your body. During digestion, soluble fiber attracts water and turns to a gel, essentially slowing down the entire process. Slower digestion is a good thing because it helps balance blood sugars, as well as help you feel full longer. Most women need about 25 to 50 grams of fiber per day and are only consuming 9 to 11 grams. Incorporating more asparagus into your diet will up your fiber intake!

It’s rich in glutathione

Glutathione is a master antioxidant and detoxifying compound. It plays an important role in immune function, fighting certain cancers, including lung and colon cancers. Glutathione is also especially helpful for people suffering with autoimmune conditions, liver disease, heart disease, and diabetes.

Asparagus is a soluble fiber that digests into a sort of gluey mass and traps sugars, bacteria, and toxins, and helps move them through your body. Click To Tweet

It’s high in aspartic acid

Aspartic acid is an amino that helps neutralize excess amounts of ammonia. Too much ammonia in your system can lead to liver, brain, and nervous system damage.  (2)

The takeaway here? Eat your veggies! Especially if it’s asparagus.

Oh, and p.s. It’s fast veggie to prepare. 5 minutes under a broiler or a few on a grill with EVOO salt and pepper. You can also have it raw! And, Miss Manners herself has deemed it a finger food!

Recipes:

Asparagus, New Potato, and  Avocado Salad- Deliciously Ella

Roasted Asparagus with Tahini Dressing- Deliciously Ella

“Everything” Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus Chickpea Quinoa Salad

Roasted Asparagus with Pine Nuts, Parmesan and Balsamic Glaze

melissa