Dr. Becky Maes - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Becky Maes

Is Asparagus Bad For You?

Also Known As: Asparagus officinalis


Grade

A


Short answer

Asparagus is very good for you. Eating it regularly can prevent a variety of illnesses and can improve your overall wellbeing.

Grade

A


Long answer

Probably best known for its ability to add an interesting odor to urine, asparagus is nevertheless so much more than that. It is high in a wide variety of nutrients and low in calories and fat, making it an ideal food to eat if you are looking to get fit and healthy!

Asparagus has a high antioxidant content, which is comprised largely of vitamins E and C. These strengthen the immune system so that your body is better able to ward off infections and illnesses, ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as cancer. Asparagus can particularly help reduce the risk of breast, colon, and lung cancers by breaking down the free radicals cruising through your body. On top of this, these antioxidants may also help slow the aging process. Inflammation, dull looking skin, and wrinkles will, therefore, take much longer to make their mark.

Asparagus can also help slow the cognitive decline that often comes with advanced age. Folate is to thank in this case. This nutrient is extremely important for pregnant women as well, as it is needed for babies to develop properly, especially when it comes to their neural tubes. Neural tubes are the premature version of the brain and spinal cord, and without folate, they will not close or function normally. Lifelong disability or even death can result from this lack of folate. Luckily, asparagus is a great source, and if eaten regularly along with other folate-rich food throughout pregnancy, it can help prevent this unfortunate fate.

If all this wasn't enough, asparagus contains fiber which keeps you regular and helps prevent colon cancer. It is a source of vitamin K, which keeps your bones strong and stops breaks and fractures from easily occurring. It also contains asparagine, an amino acid that acts as a diuretic. This is great for reducing fluid retention, high blood pressure, and ridding the body of excess salt-- and is especially beneficial for those who are at risk of developing kidney stones.

However, there is a chance that asparagus may cause an allergic reaction in those that are sensitive to the allergens it contains. Symptoms include hives, swelling of the mouth and lips, difficulty breathing, and a runny nose. Asparagus allergy is more likely to be present in those who are also allergic to garlic, onions, and chives, so if you react to any of those you may want to steer clear of asparagus.

If this does not apply to you, then asparagus is truly an excellent choice of food!


Possible short-term side effects

  • smelly urine
  • asparagus allergy can cause swelling of the mouth and lips, hives, trouble breathing, and runny nose

Ingredients to be aware of

  • aspa o 1.01 (asparagus allergen)
  • aspa o 1.02 (asparagus allergen)


Benefits

  • acts as a diuretic
  • prevents kidney stones
  • prevents cognitive decline
  • helps prevent certain cancers
  • helps maintain good bone health
  • promotes regularity
  • low in calories
  • zero fat
  • strengthens immune system



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Lindsay
Published on: 02-11-2016
Last updated: 12-10-2016

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Lindsay
Published on: 02-11-2016
Last updated: 12-10-2016




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