*Antioxidants : Glutathione, found in asparagus, contains three amino acids (glumatic acid, glycine and cysteine) that combine into one molecule that serves as a powerful oxidation-reduction agent in our bodies.Along with the antioxidants vitamin C, vitamin A (beta-carotene), zinc, manganese and selenium, the glutathione in asparagus fights against free radicals that cause aging and "cellular rust."
*[[anti-inflammatory]] : asparagus is rich in anti-inflammatory properties. The saponins, quercetin, rutin, isorhamnetin and kaempferol found in any asparagus stalks are protecting the body from too much inflammation.
*Cancer : It is well-known that chronic inflammation and oxidation of the body's cells can lead to a variety of different cancers. With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, asparagus is a robust fighter against bladder, breast, colon, lung, prostate, ovarian and other cancers. But other studies found that asparagine (which is found in the vegetable) may help spread an aggressive form of breast cancer in the body (see precautions).
*Heart Health : Folate, a B complex vitamin, is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system and is found in abundance in asparagus (one cup contains 66% of the RDA of folate). Firstly, it is involved in a biochemical event called the methylation cycle, which allows for the proper transcription of DNA, the transformation of norepinephrine to adrenalin and the transformation of serotonin to melatonin. Secondly, folate regulates the amino acid homocysteine, which in high levels can be a strong risk factor in heart disease. And finally, B vitamins such as choline, biotin, and pantothenic acid manage our blood sugar levels by effectively metabolizing sugars and starches.
*High Cholesterol : A number of studies indicate that asparagus extract may help reduce levels of harmful blood fats that contribute to heart disease, such as LDL ("bad") cholesterol. In a study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2011, for example, researchers gave asparagus extract to a group of mice on a high-fat diet. After eight weeks of treatment, the mice showed a significant decrease in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, as well as an increase in HDL ("good") cholesterol.