When it comes to upping your veg content, what do you prefer to eat? There are a vast array of veggies that can grace your dinner plate and bring you a multitude of health benefits. One such veg is the humble asparagus. The thin green stick that resembles a plant in some respects is not only the 35th most popular veg choice in the UK but also super nutritious. And if TokTok claims are to be believed, the best veg to eat before a night of drinking to help curb the hangover! (not medically backed claims, simply anecdotal, so please take with a grain of salt!)
Asparagus retains its popularity due to its flexibility for dishes and preparation methods; you can boil, roast, chop, or even add it to the BBQ. This makes for a delightfully healthy addition to any dinner plate, and you can find the best recipes for asparagus here.
But that's not the only reason why you should be consuming asparagus. It has so much more to offer; read on to find out more.
Low in Calories
Asparagus has only 20 calories per 90 grams cooked. This means you can fill your plate up with this green veg (although asparagus is also found in white and purple, green is the most common color). This makes it ideal for those looking to reduce their calorie intake or choose a healthier snack instead of chocolate or candy.
High In Antioxidants
Antioxidants include Vitamins A and C as well as flavonoids and polyphenols, all of which can be found in asparagus. Your body needs antioxidants to fight free radicals, which can cause signs of aging and even cancer. Eating foods rich in antioxidants, like asparagus and blueberries, for example, can provide you with massive health benefits.
Improved Gut Health
Did you know that asparagus is a natural prebiotic? Your gut needs prebiotics to help it remain healthy and reduce inflammation and the risk of gastrointestinal upsets. When you take prebiotic supplements or eat prebiotic foods, you increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut, improving your digestive health. Plus, the high levels of fiber in asparagus can contribute towards more regular bowel movements for increased gut and digestive health.
Rich in Folate
Half a cup of asparagus will give you over 30% of your daily requirement of folate (the synthetic name of which is foci acid). In pregnant women, this is reduced to 22%. Folate is important for pregnancy as it reduces the risk of neural defects in developing fetuses, improving the chance of healthy development in the womb. But it's not only vital during pregnancy. You need folate to function on a daily basis, too, with low folate linked to fatigue, lethargy, breathlessness, pale skin, and more.
Conclusion
While eating asparagus might not be your first choice, the smell alone can be rather pungent; it has many health benefits you cannot ignore. And you need to eat very little daily as part of a healthy diet to help you reap these benefits.