Food as Medicine Spotlight: Health Benefits of Asparagus

Photo of AsparagusAsparagus (Asparague officinalis), native to Europe, Northern Africa and Western Asia, is a flowering plant once classified in the lily family. It is high in nutrients and low in calories. It is a good source of Vitamins A, C, K, Iron and Folate and may aid in lowering depression and birth defects.

Asparagus is high in fiber and water content and may aid in digestive tract health. Asparagus comes in a variety of colors including green, white and purple varieties and may be consumed raw or cooked.

Romojaro A, et al. Nutritional and antioxidant properties of wild edible plants and their use as potential ingredients in the modern diet. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 64(8):944-52, 2013. PMID: 23944868.

Guarrera PM and Savo V. Perceived health properties of wild and cultivated food plants in local and popular traditions of Italy: a review. J Ethnopharmacol. 146(3):659-80, 2013. PMID: 23395624.