Guess what your favorite childhood bedtime story and vegetable have in common? Both tell a tale, the vegetable a tale of origin, and the childhood bedtime story a tale of a fable-story that teaches a lesson. Although the correlation between them may seem strong, past memories of eating greens as a young toddler did not compare to my pure nighttime excitement of reading Little Red Riding Hood! What if eating those hard to swallow greens like Asparagus became a highlight of your week! It’s quite possible and it all begins with an amazing story to transform your mindset into making it seem delish! Once Upon a Stalk there was an Asparagus that was known in ancient times for it's special health benefits and medicinal qualities. These days it’s found everywhere from the produce aisles in the supermarket to restaurants and bodegas. Get ready to discover the powerful benefits of how this veggie can change the end of your story….
SHIELDS R US
Asparagus can be one of the strongest shields you can use in guarding your health from the onset of cancer, disease, and low immunity. Asparagus is very high in vitamin A, folic acid and dietary fiber which all contribute to fighting cancer. Being that it is high folic acid content it helps reduce blood homocysteine levels which supposedly reduce the risk of heart disease. Asparagus also contains high levels of potassium, which may help control blood pressure, and is rich in rutin and iron, which boost the body’s immune system. Asparagus is one of the richest sources of rutin, a natural substance found in plants that together with vitamin C can help to energize and protect the body from infections. Asparagus is also a source of iron, which boosts the immune system and prevents anemia. It’s also rich in glutathione, a detoxifying compound that can help destroy carcinogens. As a result of this, asparagus may help fight or protect against certain cancers, including bone, breast, lung, larynx and colon cancer.
LOVE EUPHORIA
Forget Ginseng, this superfood has aphrodisiac claims to rev up lust in both men and women. Histamine production is supposedly triggered by folic acid and lack of histamines has been connected to an inability to reach orgasm in both men and women. Asparagus is high in folates so may boost abilities in this department. Besides steaming the asparagus, it won’t be the only steam you will be letting off especially when it comes to love!
BEAUTY-LICIOUS
Is it possible to eat your way to beauty? The answer is yes! Consuming regular amounts of asparagus will do benefits to your skin, nails, and hair due to the levels of vitamin C and E present in this superfood.
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
Asparagus equals Benjamin Button? Who would actually think the key to reversing aging and the fountain of youth would be in a bunch of stalks! Ranked among the top vegetables that slow down aging due to its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. Packed full of antioxidants of lutein, zea-xanthin, carotenes, and crypto-xanthins. Working together these flavonoid compounds help remove harmful oxidant free radicals from the body to protect it from possible cancer, neuro-degenerative diseases, and viral infections. Like all leafy greens, asparagus delivers high levels of folate, which work with vitamin B12 that is found in fish, poultry, meat and dairy to help prevent cognitive decline and impairment of the brain.
- Their total antioxidant strength, measured in terms of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC value), is 2150 µmol TE/100 g.
LEAN GREEN MACHINE
Are you ready to be lean and mean ? Asparagus is nature’s lean green machine to help you accomplish this very feat. This is a low calorie, low sodium, no cholesterol, and low fat snack full of fiber and protein. 5 spears equal 20 calories and no fat.
STOMACH THIS!
Ironically, Asparagus may not initially be tasty, but it's a key food known to help ease and stabilize digestion due to the high amount of fiber that it contains. Both fiber and protein enable food to move easily through the gut and provide relief from discomfort during digestion. According to The Ohio State University, asparagus contains inulin, a unique dietary fiber associated with improved digestion. The special feature of Inulin is that it’s a prebiotic, which does not get broken down and digested until it reaches the large intestine. There it nurtures bacteria known to improve nutrient absorption, decrease allergies, and reduce the risk of colon cancer.
ALL IN ONE VITAMIN STALK
Forget your daily multivitamin and reach for the all in one vitamin stalk! This miracle stalk can do so much good for your body. Asparagus contains vitamin A for better vision, anti-inflammatory compounds which protect you from heart disease and diabetes 2, Vitamin K which is great for healthy blood clotting and strengthening bones, and has potassium for smooth kidney functioning which acts as natural diuretic and rids the body of excess salt and fluid providing solutions to those who suffer with edema and high blood pressure. The natural diuretic effect also helps flush out toxins in the kidneys and prevent kidney stones
* Please note it is possible to have an asparagus allergy. Please keep in mind if you are allergic to other members of the lily family, such as onions, garlic, and chives, you are more likely to be allergic to asparagus. Symptoms include a runny nose, hives, trouble breathing, and puffiness or swelling around the mouth and lips. Also, be advised that National Institutes of Health recommends that people who suffer from uric acid kidney stones not eat aspargus.
RECOMMENDED RECIPE
SHAVED ASPARAGUS AND WHITE BEAN SALAD
FROM CLEANEATINGMAG.COM
http://www.cleaneatingmag.com/recipes/20-minutes-or-less/shaved-asparagus-white-bean-salad/
Nutrients per 3/4-cup serving: Calories: 171, Total Fat: 8 g, Sat. Fat: 2 g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2 g,Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g, Carbs: 17 g, Fiber: 6 g, Protein: 9 g, Sugars: 3 g, Sodium: 137 mg, Cholesterol: 6 mg
DISCLAIMER: The nutritional and well-being information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional nutritional or medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
For more information go to www.simplydelish4u.com
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