By Christian Dischler
It’s no coincidence that asparagus is shaped like an ancient spear. This heart healthy vegetable is the perfect weapon to equip as you go through life fighting for the healthiest version of yourself. Sure, it might have a reputation as the veggie least likely to steal the show. But this isn’t a popularity contest, this is a battle against the processed food onslaught we face everyday as Americans. Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable that’s loaded with a dense nutritional profile. Fiber, amino acids, folate and vitamin K all contribute to help asparagus consumption promote a healthier body and longer life.
Known throughout the culinary world for adding nuance to a dish, asparagus can’t hide from the health food world much longer. Studies are beginning to show that this vegetable can reduce your risk for heart disease due to its soluble fiber content. Soluble fiber is responsible for helping lower cholesterol levels by binding with particles in your digestive system before they have the chance to make their way any further. Additionally, asparagus has high levels of antioxidants, encourages anti-inflammation in the body, and contains potassium; which all support a healthy heart.
Asparagus’s nutritional profile makes it a great preventative food to consume when considering long-term health. In helping reduce the risk of diabetes, asparagus flourishes because it helps flush the body of salt, improve insulin secretion, and enhance beta cell functionality. Its high levels of Vitamin K help regulate blood clotting, and a comprehensive list of B vitamins ensure that this pencil-shaped veggie gives you a full armory of health benefits.
The fact that asparagus has folate begins to separate it from the rest of the pack. Folate is a crucial nutrient that many people are lacking, and when you realize that it’s a major player in red blood cell growth and healthy DNA production, you’ll want all you can get. These building blocks of health are important in everyone, but particularly in pregnant women. Asparagus is a great veggie to crave because its folate content is linked to promoting healthy pregnancies, and ultimately healthy kids.
It’s time to start including more asparagus in your diet, because you wouldn’t go into battle without the right weapon, and this green spear is the perfect one to help you live healthier, happier and longer.
