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Wednesday, April 25, 2012


Spring is here is so is the Asparagus

It’s peak season is April and May in most areas.

Asparagus is low in calories and carbohydrates, and rich in protein. One  cup is 40 calories and almost half of which is comes from protein. It is a great source of potassium, vitamin K, folic acid, vitamin Cand A also dietary fiber.
There are 3 varieties
Green most common
White  – The color or lack of is caused by being grown underground or covered; this prevents the formation of chlorophyll that gives it the green color. It is more tender but lacks in flavor.
Purple -  It is sweeter and has less fiber. Many people like it raw.
Has been used to treat arthritis and as a diuretic.
The amino acid asparagine, is excreted in urine and gives off a strong odor ( sulfur ). It  can be detected as soon as 15 minutes after you eat this spring delicacy. There is no bad side effect to the smell. About one-quarter of the population appears to have the special gene that allows them to smell those compounds. So the issue isn’t whether or not your urine is smelly; it’s whether you’re able to smell it. If you smell a funny fragrance in your urine after you eat asparagus, you’re not only normal, you have a good nose.
Because of the high fiber content it helps promote healthy digestion. Great natural diuretic. It brings down swelling in arthritis, PMS water retention, and rheumatism. It’s high folic acid and B6 makes it a great choice for fighting heart disease. It helps repair blood vessel walls.
Pregnant woman should eat asparagus in the first trimester when the nervous system is being established and cells are dividing.Folic acid is the most deficient vitamin in the world, and it can cause spinal bifida if an inadequate amount is consumed during pregnancy.
Asparagus also promotes bone building and blood coagulation (thickening).
Helps promote muscle-building.
Asparagus is a powerhouse that keeps energy production flowing. It converts protein, fats, and carbohydrates into energy. It also has sleep promoting tryptophan. Make a healthy start into Spring by adding asparagus to your daily foods. It makes a great diet food as well.

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