Superfoods: Asparagus

The Food for Gods Is Now Yours to Savour

A member of the lily family, which also includes onions, leeks and garlic, asparagus has been cultivated for more than 2,000 years by the ancient Romans, Greeks and also the Egyptians who revered them so much that they even offered it to the gods in their rituals. A delicacy once only the wealthy could afford, the humble asparagus can now be enjoyed by everyone.

• Asparagus has dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It is low in fat, sodium and has no cholesterol
• A very good source of potassium. Combined with an active amino acid called asparagines gives asparagus a diuretic effect which aids the body in detoxification and cleansing. Also helps prevent and treat urinary tract infections and kidney stones
• Asparagus balances blood sugar levels, which is highly beneficial for diabetics
• Contains the phytochemical glutathione, which has antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties
• Its fiber functions as laxative to assist in fast cleansing of waste in the gastrointestinal tract
• Is a powerful aphrodisiac and one of the best foods to increase libido. The French word for asparagus is asperge; a slang word for penis
• Its anti-inflammatory properties are excellent in the treatment of asthma, arthritis, and rheumatism
• Is a hair production stimulant and is an ideal remedy to impede balding
• Listed as the number one source of vitamin K which helps prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis and aids in bone formation and repair
• Contains inulin, a type of carbohydrate for the proper functioning of a healthy gut or intestine. The presence of this carbohydrate in human intestine promotes the growth of friendly bacteria, like Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria to help create balance and keeps the digestive system healthy
• Asparagus contains loads of folate (vitamin B) – an essential mineral essential in the early stages of pregnancy and helps the body to fight against certain birth defects, like spina bifida (a neural tube defect)
• Folate is very important for the synthesis of DNA and to assist in the development of the nervous system
• Folate has also been shown to reduce pain and inflammation and the risk of heart disease
• A word of caution: Eating asparagus may create a strong urine odour because it contains a sulfur compound called methyl mercaptan, a smelly waste product. However, the odour disappears once the asparagus is completely digested and absorbed.