Along with many other delights, spring brings the beginning of the asparagus growing season. Whether you prefer the green, purple or white variety, asparagus is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, and consuming it as part of a healthy diet can reduce the risk of cancer It is diseases related to the cardiovascular system.
Despite the nutritional benefits of asparagus, many are opposed to eating the vegetable due to its pungent after-effects. As Benjamin Franklin wrote in 1781, “A few asparagus stalks eaten will give our urine an unpleasant odor.” This odor has become so well known that post-consumption urine is now often referred to as “asparagus pee.”
Scientists believe the odor in question is due to two chemicals: methanethiol and S-methyl thioester. When enzymes in the human digestive tract break down the asparagusic acid that is naturally present in the vegetable, these volatile compounds are created. When eliminated from the body, they turn into a foul-smelling gas that comes out of asparagus pee.