Asparagus is the name given to young shoots of a perennial herb of the genus Asparagus. There are over 200 species of this plant, some of which are edible and cultivated as a vegetable. Low-calorie and easily digestible asparagus is rich in many nutrients, so the regular use of this vegetable in food has a beneficial effect on health.
Vitamins and minerals in asparagus
Asparagus contains a large amount of powerful natural antioxidants: beta-carotene (provitamin A), tocopherol (vitamin E) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). In addition, asparagus is rich in thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), folic acid (vitamin B9), niacin (vitamin PP) and the vitamin-like substance choline. Among the minerals that make up asparagus, there is a significant amount of potassium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, copper, selenium, as well as some calcium, magnesium, fluorine and zinc.
Useful properties of asparagus
The high doses of antioxidant vitamins contained in asparagus slow down the aging process, increase the body's defenses, improve the condition of the skin and prevent the deposition of cholesterol in the vessels, thereby preventing the occurrence of atherosclerosis.
The benefits of asparagus are also due to the variety of the B-complex. Vitamin B1 plays an important role in metabolic processes, contributes to the normal functioning of the cardiovascular, nervous and digestive systems. Vitamin B2, like thiamine, is required for the successful course of metabolic processes, in addition, it supports the health of the skin and mucous membranes. Vitamin B9 is essential for the creation and development of new cells, therefore folic acid is especially important during intrauterine development of the fetus and in early childhood.
Vitamin PP, which is part of asparagus, improves blood microcirculation in blood vessels, lowers cholesterol, and participates in the metabolism of proteins and fats. And the choline contained in asparagus has a beneficial effect on memory and the nervous system, normalizes the metabolism of fats and cholesterol, protects the liver from obesity and regulates insulin levels.
Mineral substances, which are rich in asparagus, have a complex beneficial effect on the body. Potassium improves heart function and removes excess fluid from the body; calcium, phosphorus and fluoride strengthen bones and tooth enamel; iron, magnesium and manganese are involved in the processes of hematopoiesis; and zinc, copper and selenium are required for the synthesis of many hormones and enzymes.
In addition to vitamins and minerals, asparagus contains a unique substance asparagine, which has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart and kidneys; estrogen-like isoflavones, which normalize hormonal fluctuations in women; saponins that thin phlegm in the respiratory tract; and coumarin, which prevents blood clots.
Like any vegetable, asparagus is also a source of healthy fiber, which improves food digestion, heals the intestinal microflora, removes toxic substances from the body and promotes faster satiety.
