Does evidence suggest that asparagus fights cancer?

There is no definitive evidence backed by peer-reviewed science to suggest that asparagus can fight or cure existing cancer, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research. However, asparagus is a highly nutritious vegetable that may help to prevent cancer when eaten as part of a healthy diet.

Claims that asparagus can fight cancer frequently circulate the Internet, reports the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. These claims are false. Many refer to an article supposedly published in a 1979 medical journal, explains the AICR. However, the source of this claim has never been identified.

Asparagus does contain nutrients such as folate and beta-carotene, which have some benefits for cancer prevention, writes the AICR.