Asparagus

Don’t under estimate the nutritional value, taste and versatility of asparagus based on it’s size! 

Asparagus is one of the most nutritionally well-balanced vegetables in existence. It leads nearly all vegetables in the wide array of nutrients it supplies in significant amounts for a healthy diet.

Asparagus is the leading supplier among vegetables of folic acid. Folic acid is necessary for blood cell formation, growth, and prevention of liver disease.(1) Folic acid has been shown to play a significant role in the prevention of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, that cause paralysis and death in 2,500 babies each year.(1)
Its wealth of nutrients, fibre and very low sodium and calorie content make asparagus a nutritionally wise choice for today’s health-conscious consumer.

Asparagus is:

  •  
    • Low in calories.(1)
    • Contains no fat or cholesterol.(1)
    • Very low in sodium.(1) 
    • A good source of potassium .(1)  Potassium is an important mineral found within the cell membrane.  It is essential for nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and heart function.
    • A source of fibre.(1) 
    • An excellent source of folacin or folic acid .(1)
    • A significant source of thiamin .(1)   Thiamin or vitamin B1 is essential for our energy – it helps convert carbohydrates into energy.
    • A significant source of vitamin B6.(1)  Another vitamin important to maintain our energy levels – this important vitamin helps convert carbohydrates from the form they are stored, into the form that can be used for energy
    • One of the richest sources of rutin, a compound which strengthens capillary walls(1).
    • Contains glutathione (GSH) (1) – a major antioxidant

 

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