Asparagus is the richest source of dietary glutathione, a small protein present in every cell of our bodies, offering them protection.

Glutathione is the body's "master antioxidant" and without it other antioxidants such as vitamin C and folic acid are ineffective.

Research is under way at the American Health Foundation in New York to validate the cancer-fighting potential of normal servings of asparagus three or four times a week. Fresh, canned and frozen asparagus are being tested in human primary and cancer cell cultures to assess asparagus glutathione's antioxidant, detoxifying and immune system regulating functions, according to the Washington Asparagus Commission.

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