Asparagus is a wonderful source of folate and potassium and happens to be very low in calories.  The stalks are rich in antioxidants providing many essential nutrients.  Foods rich in folate have been linked to reduce the risk of heart and cardiovascular disease.  Most recent research shows folate to be key in protecting against neural tube defects in babies.  If you are pregnant this is a great food to protect against defects.

Diets rich in potassium foods may reduce the loss of calcium from the body.  Particularly green asparagus is a good source of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body produce and maintain collagen, the major structural protein component of the body’s connective tissues.

“Asparagus has long been recognized for its medicinal properties,” wrote D. Onstad, author of Whole Foods Companion: A Guide for Adventurous Cooks, Curious Shoppers and Lovers of Natural Foods. “Asparagus contains substances that act as a diuretic, neutralize ammonia that makes us tired, and protect small blood vessels from rupturing. Its fiber content makes it a laxative, too.”

There are many wonderful reasons to get your asparagus in, and I hope this article will remind you why you need to pick some up your next time out for groceries.