Centuries later, the phenomenon of asparagus wee remains as widespread as ever.
Asparagus is a great source of nutrients but can leave your urine smelling foul. — dpa
To blame here is the asparagusic acid contained in both white and green varieties of the vegetable, which gives the urine its typical asparagus smell. An enzyme releases sulphur-containing compounds, which are then excreted in the urine. Those lucky enough to not have the enzyme that breaks down asparagusic acid don't have to struggle with the foul-smelling asparagus urine that Franklin once had.
The reason for this, researchers posit, is a chemical reaction between secondary plant substances of the strawberries and protein fragments of the asparagus. This inhibits the formation of sulphur-containing compounds.
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