What is Asparagusic Acid and Is it Beneficial? Nutrition Experts Weigh in On the Health Benefits of Asparagus
Only genetics can determine if you’re an ‘asparagus smeller’
We all know eating fruits and vegetables is an essential part of a balanced diet. Often, these foods offer great health perks as well. And one vegetable, specifically, has its own unique compound that will help you get important nutrients. That’s right eating asparagus has its advantages. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of asparagusic acid and how these stalks can improve your well-being.
What is asparagusic acid?
“Asparagusic acid is a compound found only in asparagus,” says Chris Mohr, PhD, RD, fitness and nutrition advisor at Fortune Recommends Health. “It plays a role in the plant’s defense mechanisms against predators and has potential health benefits.”
It’s rare for certain compounds to be found exclusively in one vegetable which is what makes asparagus stand out. One study from the journal Metabolites notes that asparagusic acid “has been of great interest concerning both pharmacological and flavor properties of asparagus.”
The benefits of asparagusic acid
It’s been theorized that asparagusic acid can help repel parasites like roundworms or other bacteria. “These properties could make it useful in promoting health by potentially reducing harmful bacteria or fungi in the body,” says Mohr.
Mohr adds that more research needs to be done regarding asparagusic acid, however, the positive attributes of asparagus are a good enough reason to incorporate it into your diet.
Why is asparagus good for your health?
Asparagus is a versatile vegetable.You can cook asparagus in different ways, but it’s also great for your health. “It’s packed with vitamins (like A, C, E and K), minerals (like folate and iron),” says Raj Dasgupta, MD, ABIM quadruple board-certified physician and medical reviewer for the National Council on Aging.
According to the USDA, ½ a cup of asparagus (one serving or three long asparagus spears) is made up of mostly water, has two grams of fiber and is full of nutrients including calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron. “The fiber in asparagus helps with digestion and heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease through improved cholesterol levels and blood pressure,” explains Mohr.\
Eating these stalks will also give you a good source of antioxidants, which Mohr adds “are needed for preventing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.”
Asparagusic acid can make your urine smell
If you’re wondering why there’s an odor when you go to the bathroom after eating asparagus, the asparagusic acid is the culprit. “When your body breaks it down, it turns into sulfurous compounds that end up in your urine, giving it a distinctive smell,” says Dr. Dasgupta.
While the compound itself doesn’t have an odor and It’s nontoxic, your urine will have a rotten cabbage-type of smell.
However, not everyone can smell it—thanks to genetics. Some people have a condition called asparagus anosmia meaning that they can’t smell if their pee takes on the dreaded asparagus scent. In a study from the journal BMJ, participants were either characterized as asparagus smellers or anosmic.
Those who can smell it will notice the odor as early as 15-30 minutes after they consume the vegetable. Dr. Dagupta adds that everyone breaks down asparagusic acid differently, so some people don’t produce the odor at all.
More on a nutritious balanced diet:
What Happens If You Eat Peanut Butter Every Day? Nutritionists Weigh In
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
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