Asparagus tops the list of vegetables when it comes to its nutritional value. Asparagus is native to southern Europe, Asia and Mediterranean region and it’s widely known for its health benefits. Asparagus has been a popular ingredient in food since ancient times. It’s been regarded as an appetizing root that adds flavor to soups, stews and sauces. There are several types and varieties of this leafy vegetable, from which you can get different health benefits.
Commercial bean suppliers list Asparagus as one of the beneficial vegetables for those who like to eat a warm meal during the cold winter months. Asparagus is most preferred by many in preference over peas, potatoes and cauliflower. In fact, the National Health and Food Education Service (NHSF) lists Asparagus as one of the eighteen food substances with a high nutritional value. The nutritional value of Asparagus helps in alleviating tension, strengthens bones and increases energy levels.
Asparagus also has high medicinal value. Medical studies have proven that Asparagus possesses powerful antioxidant properties and thus it is considered as one of the most effective natural remedies for several health problems. Asparagus helps in easy digestion of fats, cholesterol, carbohydrates and sugars and thus plays an important role in fighting numerous heart diseases. It increases blood pressure levels, reduces cholesterol and cures numerous gastro-intestinal problems. It also helps in reducing cancer rates and promotes general well being.
Besides serving as an excellent source of vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin D, Asparagus is considered as the best place to find other valuable minerals. It is rich in potassium, iron, calcium, silica and manganese and has been found very beneficial in lowering blood sugar levels in diabetics. Asparagus also offers a large amount of magnesium, phosphorus and copper. Thus this legume is considered as one of the most nutritious edible legumes. There are two types of edible Asparagus – curly leaf Asparagus and flat leaf Asparagus and they both differ in their essential nutrients.
Asparagus can be consumed both fresh and dried and is popular all across the world. It is consumed either steamed or grilled and both forms make a wonderful side dish. You can place Asparagus on top of steamed or grilled vegetables for some extra health benefits. When the Asparagus is eaten, the enzymes inside the herb immediately begin to break it down into simple sugars and thereby release all those valuable health benefits. You can add Asparagus to your diet in various forms such as in salads, in soups, potato dishes, etc.
This is also a fine food for weight loss. The Asparagus has high fiber and therefore helps you lose weight by reducing your appetite. This legume is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients which help in maintaining good health. They also offer a wide range of health benefits due to their rich nutrients and proteins and therefore Asparagus should be consumed in its purest form. This legume has been in use since ancient times and it was used as food and medicine in Greece and Rome. This food is one of nature’s super foods and contains a large number of nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Silica, Folic Acid, Copper, Niacin, Aspartic Acid, Epicatechin and Various Biotics.