Research published in the Journal of Food Science studied the effects of asparagus shoots and leaves on mouse and human liver cells. Specifically, researchers took a look at potentially beneficial amino acids and minerals found in asparagus extract (so maybe not exactly the full vegetable). “Cellular toxicities,” as lead researcher B.Y. Kim calls them, were alleviated with asparagus, and the veggie even protected liver cells, the team’s study suggests. The study is a bit old–it was published in 2009. But still. This is very important stuff to know! Stock up on the green stuff before you imbibe. Science Daily
