My grandfather moved in with us last year.He is 86 years old and relatively
healthy.He does not take any medication
but says that eating asparagus is his “medicine.”He asks my wife to cook some every day but
this is rather annoying.I know some
foods have health benefits, does asparagus?--C.Y. Nashville, Tennessee
Answer:Grandpa
and I agree on this one;asparagus is
good medicine.It contains folic acid
(vitamin B9) and studies have repeatedly shown that folic acid can reduce
levels of an inflammatory substance called homocysteine; high levels of this
amino acid are linked with heart disease .One serving of asparagus (5 spears) provides over 60 % of the
recommended daily intake so it’s a terrific natural source of a powerful heart-healthy
nutrient.
Asparagus also
contains vitamins A, B6, C, K, and thiamine.This tasty veggie also has some beta carotene, potassium, zinc and
fiber.Here are other reasons to fall in
love with asparagus:
It has no fat, contains no cholesterol and is low in
sodium.
It may improve the health of your digestive tract by
sparking production of friendly flora (like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria).
It could improve your mood because it provides vitamin C
and folic acid, which spark production of the “happy” brain chemicals such as
serotonin and dopamine.
Asparagus contains plant chemicals that are anti-fungal
and anti-viral and are generally helpful in boosting immune function.
Asparagus contains a very strong antioxidant called
glutathione, which has been shown to have properties that could be preventive
against cancer.
Asparagus is a diuretic and increases kidney function;
this may also help you reduce water retention, blood pressure and urinary tract
infections.
A special anti-inflammatory plant chemical in asparagus
may ease arthritic pain.
Asparagus are part of a healthy diet for pregnant women,
as folic acid is known to prevent birth defects.Asparagus should not replace prenatal
vitamins, which are often prescribed for their folic acid.
Asparagus has sulfur-containing
amino acids that might help slow or stop the spread of warts.
It is one of the
richest sources of rutin, a compound which strengthens capillary walls.
It tastes delish
when it’s sauteed in olive oil with fresh garlic, sea salt and feta cheese. I
am seriously getting a craving now!
More information about asparagus and some recipes can be
found at www.asparagus.org. Don’t overcook asparagus, steam it only until it’s
bright green and somewhat crisp, as this retains the healthy nutrients inside.Don’t worry if your urine has a greenish hue
or if it smells weird after you eat asparagus – that’s normal. If you don’t
like the veggie and only want to reap its health benefits, trya dietary supplement. I’ve purchased
“Asparagus Extract” from two reputable sources, ‘Enzymatic Therapy’ and ‘Chi’s
Enterprise,’ sold online and at some health food stores.
This information is not intended to treat, cure or
diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen is the author of \\\"The 24-Hour
Pharmacist.\\\" For more information visit www.DearPharmacist.com