Asparagus is considered the most popular spring vegetable because it not only tastes delicious, but is also an absolute nutrient bomb. But what is the difference between green and white asparagus and which variety is healthier? Here are the answers.
White or green – that’s the difference between asparagus
White asparagus grows underground and is also harvested underground. Its green counterpart grows above the ground and forms chlorophyll as soon as it stretches its head out of the ground towards the sun. Hence the green color.
In addition, green asparagus does not taste quite as mild and fine as white, but has a more spicy taste.
Since white asparagus has to be pricked, which involves a lot more effort, it is usually a bit more expensive. Green asparagus only has to be cut off.
How healthy is asparagus?
Asparagus consists of 90 percent water and is therefore very low in calories and fat-free. The fat content is only about 0.3 percent. It’s 0.47 percent carbohydrate and just over 2 percent protein, which is where “most” of the calories come from.
The popular vegetable also contains many important vitamins (A, B, C, E, K) and many valuable minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron.
The high potassium content and the asparagine, which stimulates kidney function, have a draining effect and there can be a strong smell of urine after consumption.
White and green asparagus: which variety is healthier?
Green asparagus is a bit healthier because it contains more vitamin C, folic acid and also more B vitamins than its white counterpart.
In addition, you don’t have to peel it, just remove the woody ends before cooking.
In the end, both varieties are very healthy, which is why only personal taste should play a role in the selection.
Asparagus and gout – when does asparagus become unhealthy?
However, according to the Federal Center for Nutrition, eating large amounts of asparagus can trigger gout attacks, which is why some people should consume the delicious vegetable with caution. It contains many purines, which are converted to uric acid in the body. If there is more uric acid than the kidneys can process and excrete, the uric acid level in the blood will be too high, which in turn can lead to deposits, especially in finger and toe joints.
This creates pain and swelling in sufferers, which are the symptoms of gout. If you have kidney problems or even kidney stones, it is better to consume asparagus in smaller amounts. In moderation this is not a problem, because the quantity makes the poison. Incidentally, the largest proportion of purines is in the asparagus head, so if you want to be particularly careful, you can remove it beforehand – but who wants to do without the best part?
Ultimately, both white and green asparagus are super healthy and should definitely be taken advantage of and enjoyed during asparagus season.
