Asparagus Relieves Hangovers

CHICAGO—Amino acids and minerals in asparagus extract may alleviate alcohol hangover and protect liver cells against toxins, according to a study in the Journal of Food Science.

Researchers at the Institute of Medical Science and Jeju National University in Korea analyzed the components of young asparagus shoots and leaves to compare their biochemical effects on human and rat liver cells and found amino acid and mineral contents to be much higher in the leaves than the shoots.

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