Asparagus
Asparagus: Nutritional Content & Health Benefits
Asparagus is a staple of many of our Field Doctor meals, and this nutritional powerhouse is not only great for you, but it tastes good too! Learn more about asparagus in our guide, including what nutrients it is rich in and how these benefit your body.
Asparagus is a nutritious vegetable, full of antioxidants and is a great source of gut friendly fibre and prebiotics. It contains inulin which feeds ‘good’ bacteria in your gut, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus. Inulin is a FODMAP – so one to be avoided when on the elimination stage of the Low FODMAP diet - but definitely one to try bring back into your diet if you can tolerate it.
Asparagus is a hero ingredient in our Malaysian Tofu Curry and our Field Green Risotto (not low FODMAP meals).
Interesting facts
Asparagus is officially known as Asparagus officinalis and is a member of the lily family. The main growing season for asparagus in the UK is May and June. All asparagus growers in Britain stop cutting spears on 21 June – Midsummer’s Day – which is the traditional date for the asparagus to end.
Asparagus contains a sulphur containing compound called asparagusic acid which may cause your pee to have a distinct smell after eating asparagus. However, this does not happen to everyone and depends on whether you carry the gene for the enzyme that breaks down asparagus acid and creates the smell. Some people are also unable to detect the smell.
Rich in
- Folate
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin K
- Fibre + Inulin
- Potassium
Key health benefits
Improves digestive health. Eating asparagus as part of a fibre-rich diet is an excellent way to help meet your fibre needs and keep your digestive system healthy. Being a good source of both insoluble and soluble fibre asparagus may also help your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes (1). Inulin, a soluble fibre, has been found to be a good food source for some 'good' gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus (2).
Supports a healthy pregnancy. Being high in folate, asparagus helps to reduce the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy (7).
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more content: Hero Ingredients
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