Healing Benefits of Asparagus

It’s asparagus season! Are you ready for it? I certainly am. It’s probably one of my most favorite veggies.

My favorite place for finding the best asparagus is at the farmers market. It’s usually always in abundance, fresh, and you get the chance to talk to the farmers who are growing it. It’s not the easiest vegetable to grow and it only has a very short window at the beginning of spring, so some serious appreciation and gratitude is necessary.

Benefits of Eating Asparagus

Asparagus is a fantastic healing vegetable that is high in essential minerals such as selenium, zinc, and manganese which are vital for a strong and healthy immune system. It is also high in vitamins A, K, and B-complex including folate which is a building block for a healthy cardiovascular system.

Asparagus is rich in:

• Folate – asparagus is loaded with folate which is excellent for reproductive health
• Vitamin A - one cup of asparagus gives you 20% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin A which promotes good vision, gene transcription, better immune function, and great skin health.
• Vitamin K – asparagus has this powerful vitamin which is helpful for bone health and helps with clotting
• Antioxidants – asparagus is an excellent source of antioxidants which helps to combat inflammation
• Prebiotic fiber – asparagus is full of this gut feeding fiber which is super important for digestive health and keeping your gut happy
• Low in calories – asparagus won’t add to your waistline, but it makes up for calories in its nutrient density

Related: Nutritional Powerhouse--Asparagus

The Healing Benefits Of Asparagus

Asparagus contains aspartic acid which is an amino acid that neutralizes excess amounts of ammonia in the body that is often the cause of exhaustion, headaches, and poor digestion. Asparagus contains significant amounts of healthy fiber and protein which helps to maintain blood sugar levels, prevent constipation, stabilize digestion, and stop the urge to overeat.

It also contains a compound called asparagine which is a natural diuretic that breaks up oxalic and uric acid crystals stored in muscles and in the kidneys and eliminates them through the urine. This natural diuretic is helpful in reducing water retention, bloating, and swelling in the body. Asparagus is also high in glutathione which is an antioxidant powerhouse and particularly beneficial for those suffering with autoimmune conditions, liver disease, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

It is known to help strengthen the liver, kidneys, skin, ligaments, and bones. It’s chlorophyll content makes it a great blood builder. Asparagus also contains inulin which encourages good bacteria in the gut that boosts nutrient absorption and helps to keep the immune system functioning properly. Asparagus is a nutrient-packed, delicious vegetable that can be eaten raw, roasted or steamed and added to soups, salads, stews, rice, and/or veggie dishes.

The best part about asparagus is that it tastes great raw, baked, grilled, steamed, roasted or sautéed. There are endless ways to prepare this delicious veggie, so let’s get started making great recipes with asparagus!

Here is an easy, delicious way to enjoy the nutrient powerhouse asparagus!

Roasted Asparagus with Toasted Almonds

How It’s Made:

Preheat oven to 400F

1. Place the asparagus on a large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
2. Remove asparagus from oven and let cool slightly. Cut asparagus into thirds and place in large bowl.
3. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well to combine.

More Asparagus Recipes:

Pan Sautéed Asparagus with Garlic

Vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup Recipe

Wild Rice and Asparagus Salad

Spring Asparagus and Celeriac Soup