Crunchy and firm, fresh and sweet, carrots are loved universally by adults and children alike. Although they are available throughout the year in supermarkets, they are at their tastiest when they are fresh out of the ground.
Carrots not only look and taste good, they also hold multitudes of nutrients that are essential for the body. In this article, I’ll go over some of these benefits so you’ll know whether these veggies should become an integral part of your eating routine.
Health benefits
Carrots contain very high levels of Vitamin A. They also contain Vitamins K, C, B6, B1 and B3. They are rich in potassium, manganese, molybdenum and have traces of phosphorus, magnesium and folate. That they are rich in dietary fiber is no secret.
It may be safely said that carrots contain the highest concentration of pro-vitamin A and beta carotenes, which are converted into Vitamin A within the body. That is why carrots are recommended for the prevention of night blindness.
Carrots have the highest concentration of carotenoids of all vegetable sources available to us. These are vital in preventing postmenopausal cancer and may play a vital part in the body’s defense against cancers of the cervix, bladder, prostate, colon and esophagus. Carotenoids in carrot also help regulate blood sugar levels and may be helpful in overcoming insulin resistance. This may also assist in various weight loss issues.
In a study, it was revealed that people who smoke and develop lung cancers generally show a depletion of Vitamin A. Therefore, foods rich in Vitamin A (like carrots) are helpful in preventing cancers and may promote healthy lungs.
A study revealed that taking in sufficient amounts of carrots help regulate cholesterol levels, which in turn promotes cardiovascular health.
Macular degeneration is a common problem faced by people as they age. People who take in beta carotene through their foods are at a lower risk of developing macular degeneration.
Studies show that taking a carrot a day reduces the risk of developing stroke by a whopping 68%! This is because beta carotene is beneficial for the health of the brain.
Carrots also have high amounts of dietary fiber and low amounts of calories, which makes it a dieter’s favorite food. Indeed, carrots are a worthy addition to any diet plan.
How to Cook and eat
Carrots are root vegetables. Therefore, they must be washed thoroughly and rubbed with a brush gently before consumption. In most places, carrots are peeled.
Raw carrots may be taken in as salads.
Carrots are best when they are eaten as crudités for a tasty dip.
Carrot sticks may be rubbed with juice of a lemon and eaten. I find this to be an excellent snack to take with, much healthier many other options and a great way to stop eating fast food.
Shred carrots with beets and apples for a tasty vegetable and fruit salad.
Carrots may be cooked gently. Cooking does not destroy beta carotenes. Instead, it breaks down fibers which make nutrients more easily available to the body.
Carrot juice is a real thirst quencher on hot days. You can add carrot juice to bananas and milk to make a breakfast shake. Remember, a healthy breakfast is very important to curb your appetite throughout the day.
Carrots may be pureed and blended with boiled potatoes to make a thick and nutrient rich soup.
In Conclusion
Carrots have always enjoyed a place of pride on the dining table. Even in the past, much before science evolved to what it is today, our ancestors had a good idea of the nutritional benefits of carrots. Years later, we find that there is a wealth of truth in what our ancestors told us. So, the next time you come across fresh, young carrots in the supermarket, pack some and bring home their natural goodness.
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