Dinner: Shrimp Scampi Angel Hair Pasta with Asparagus

Shrimp scampi made without the butter in a delicious pasta with asparagus.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Asparagus

Health benefits of Shrimp Scampi Angel Hair Pasta with Asparagus

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

Asparagus stands out as a superfood for managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting many women of reproductive age. This nutrient-dense vegetable offers a myriad of health benefits that align perfectly with the dietary needs of those managing PCOS, making it an essential addition to their diet.

Rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, asparagus is particularly high in folate, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and has significant levels of chromium—a trace mineral that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells. This is particularly beneficial for women with PCOS, as they often experience insulin resistance, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and potentially contributing to weight gain and metabolic complications. By improving insulin sensitivity, asparagus can help manage these symptoms more effectively.

Furthermore, asparagus is a great source of dietary fiber, which plays a key role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar, offering another layer of support for insulin resistance. Additionally, the high fiber content in asparagus can aid in weight management, an important aspect for those with PCOS, as maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the severity of the condition's symptoms.

Asparagus also contains a unique compound called inulin, a prebiotic that promotes digestive health by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall health and can have a positive impact on the management of PCOS by improving digestion, nutrient absorption, and possibly even hormonal balance.

Incorporating asparagus into the diet can be both easy and delicious. It can be grilled, roasted, steamed, or added to salads, omelets, and stir-fries. Its versatility and nutritional profile make asparagus an invaluable superfood for those looking to manage PCOS symptoms through a healthy and balanced diet. By contributing to better insulin sensitivity, weight management, and digestive health, asparagus offers a natural way to support the body in dealing with the challenges of PCOS.

Ingredients

6 oz whole wheat angel hair pasta
1/2 lemon
1 tbsp parsley
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
4 asparagus spears
2 cloves garlic
1 lb large shrimp frozen

Instructions

1. Sauté shrimp with one glove of garlic and olive oil in pan until shrimp is pink color (cooked completely).

2. Transfer shrimp to bowl and set aside keeping juices from shrimp in the pan.

3. Cook pasta as directed in pot with boiling water.

4. Sauté asparagus with other glove of garlic in another separate pan.

5. Drain pasta when done. Cook asparagus until it is slightly soft (not too soft and not too hard) Set aside to cool.

6. In the same pan in which you cooked the shrimp, add the chicken stock (or broth), the juice of the lemon half, parsley, salt and pepper. Bring to a light boil.

7. Turn off heat on stove after chicken broth has reached the light boil. Add pasta and shrimp. Slice each piece of asparagus into 3 equal pieces and add to pasta and shrimp.

8. Stir together until pasta has soaked up broth and serve. Add more lemon juice if desired.

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