Asparagus – a Super Food

Asparagus officinalis –  Asparagus
The Health Benefits of Asparagus

Asparagus is one of the healthiest foods you can eat.    You can have your C.A.K.E  and eat it – Vitamins C, A, K, and E, that is.

Asparagus is low in calories – just 20 calories per 90g
Asparagus contains 4 vitamins  – C, A, K and E
Asparagus is full of minerals – Potassium, Phosphorus and Folate
Asparagus has small amounts of micronutrients – Iron, Zinc and Riboflavin
Asparagus 
provides Protein and Fat
Asparagus
 is an antioxidant
Asparagus i
s high in insoluble fibre and contains small amounts of soluble fibre
Asparagus is a member of the lily family

Health benefits of Asparagus

Vitamin C – also known as ascorbic acid – maintains healthy cells and connective tissue and structure for organs.  A lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy.

Vitamin A – also known as Retinol – helps with vision, strengthens immunity, and keeps body linings healthy, such as the nose

Vitamin K is needed for blood clotting to help heal wounds and also to help build strong bones

Vitamin E helps protect cell membranes

The B Vitamins –
Riboflavin – Vitamin B2 – keeps skin, eyes and the nervous system healthy.  It cannot be stored in the body, so you need it in your diet every day.
Folate – Vitamin B9 – important during the early stages of pregnancy

Minerals
Potassium – helps lower blood pressure
Phosphorus – helps build strong bones and teeth
Iron – helps make red blood cells, which carry oxygen around the body
Zinc –  a trace element that has several important functions – makes new cells, processes carbohydrate, fat and protein and helps heal wounds

Fibre keeps the digestive system healthy.