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Asparagus
May help prevent: cancer, depression, heart disease, high blood
pressure, obesity

Asparagus spears shoot to the top of nutrition charts with a powerful disease- fighting team of phytochemicals. Crammed with vitamin C, beta-carotene, folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin E, asparagus helps to protect the body against cancer and tumor growth. Folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin E protect against heart disease, while vitamin C and beta-carotene boost the immune system. Folate-rich asparagus may also help to prevent birth defects and keep homocysteine levels healthy. Preliminary research indicates that folate-rich foods such as asparagus may reduce the risk of depression. Asparagus is the number one source of ready-made glutathione, the body’s most essential antioxidant that prevents disease and reduces the signs of aging. Another flavonoid called rutin works with vitamin C found in asparagus to strengthen capillary walls. At just 4 calories a spear and a good source of fibre, asparagus is an excellent food to support weight loss.

Action Tip: Freshly steamed asparagus spears are deliciously served as is or tossed into a salad. Thicker woodier spears are excellent in soups, while thinner spears are great additions to sauces and stir-fries.