Asparagus May Prevent Hangovers [Study]


According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science, asparagus may help prevent a hangover after heavy drinking.

Not only may it prevent a hangover, but the amino acids and minerals in asparagus can also protect liver cells from toxins.

The study, conducted by researchers at the Institute of Food Technologists, analyzed the components of the shoots and leaves of young asparagus and compared their effects on the liver cells of humans and rats. The amount of amino acids and minerals was found to be higher in the leaves than the shoots, according to lead researcher B.Y. Kim.

Kim also said:

“Cellular toxicities were significantly alleviated in response to treatment with the extracts of asparagus leaves and shoots. These results provide evidence of how the biological functions of asparagus can help alleviate alcohol hangover and protect liver cells.”

Last month, we reported that an experiment conducted by the University of Karachi in Pakistan found that asparagus could help fight diabetes. Scientists injected rats with a chemical that induced type 2 diabetes. Thirteen weeks later, half were treated with asparagus extract, and the other half were treated with a traditional anti-diabetes drug for 28 days. Low levels of the extract suppressed blood sugar levels, but it did not improve insulin output.

According to the Daily Mail, “Only high doses of the extract had a significant effect on insulin production by the pancreas, the organ which releases the hormone into the bloodstream.”

In addition to fighting diabetes and preventing or curing hangovers, asparagus can help slow the aging process and help our brains fight cognitive decline. So the next time your mother tells you to eat your vegetables, you should probably listen to her.

[Photo credit: Shutterstock]