Organic vs. Conventionally Grown Asparagus

According to EWG (Environmental Working Group) asparagus is at the top of the list for produce low in pesticide residue making this a food you can enjoy with abandon even when organically grown is not available in the produce area or farmers markets.

Some say asparagus is a vegetable and others say it is an herb, it is a member of the lily family and an important part of a healthy diet. Egyptians cultivated asparagus over 2,000 years ago it has been woven through history from Europe, the Middle East and to North America. It was revered in rituals and a legend in medicinal circles, and for good healthy reasons.

Asparagus is a wonderful rich source of folate, 6 spears contain about 50% of your daily recommended dose. A natural anti inflammatory, folate helps to decrease pain and has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Folate is very important to pregnant women, a lack of folate increases risk of Spina Bifida. Folate also helps regulate embryonic and fetal nerve cell formation and protects the baby from having neural tube defects. It is also believed folate helps prevent premature births.

Folate is known to be important in protecting against cancer, protecting cells from toxins such as free radicals. The National Cancer Institute states asparagus is one of the top foods on their lists for helping the body to fight cancer. Along with containing glutathione- a phyto-chemical, asparagus is high in rutin which is a recognized aid in strengthening blood vessels.

Folate is found naturally in leafy green vegetables, and citrus fruits. Folic acid is a supplement and does not have the fine balance of vitamins and trace minerals found in a whole food. It is always recommended to eat good whole foods for health benefits before supplements.

Asparagus has been listed as the number one source of vitamin K which is necessary in the synthesis of ostocalcin. This is the protein within bone tissue which allows calcium to crystallize. Studies show vitamin K can help prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis through this process, aiding in bone formation and repair.

Asparagus is also loaded with potassium (288 mg per cup) which helps the body from losing calcium, vitamin A, B6, and thiamin, glutathione, high in fiber, no sodium or cholesterol or fat. One cup has only 40 calories and 3 grams of fiber essential in cleaning and maintaining a healthy digestive system. A healthy food choice to detox your body. Beta carotene is an additional benefit along with Vitamin C which assists the body in producing collagen. Collagen helps hold together the body’s tissues and cells. This is one food packed with vitamins and minerals helping to treat, among other ailments, urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

For optimum health benefits it is suggested that asparagus be eaten raw but there are many wonderful recipes to entice you to include asparagus in your healthy daily diet.