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Health Benefits of Asparagus
 ©2007 Publications International, Ltd. A single asparagus spear has fewer than four calories. |
Asparagus can almost be called the ideal vegetable. It's rich in nutrients, very low in calories and very high in flavor. When cooked properly, each asparagus spear retains its crunchy yet tender texture, making it satisfying and filling -- and, at less than four calories per spear, a great choice for those watching their weight.
Asparagus is ideal for young women; it's a winner when it comes to folic acid -- a vitamin that helps prevent neural-tube birth defects. Two major antioxidants -- beta-carotene and vitamin C -- are also abundant in asparagus. By neutralizing damaging particles in our bodies like smog and cigarette smoke, antioxidants are major contenders in the fight against heart disease, cancer, and cataracts.
Nutritional Values of Fresh and Cooked Asparagus
Serving Size: 4 spears| Calories | 13 |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 g |
| Carbohydrate | 3 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 8 mg |
| Vitamin A |
604 IU |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Folic Acid | 89 micrograms |
| Potassium | 134 mg |
| Carotenoids |
380 micrograms |
Want more information about asparagus? Try:
- Vegetable Recipes: Find delicious recipes that feature asparagus.
- Nutrition: Find out how asparagus fits in with your overall nutrition plans.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer your questions about all things that come from the garden.
