The carrot is known as the tasty, highly nutritive vegetable that is easy to grow.. Generally people like it because of its sweet taste and crunchy texture.
Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the human body. Carrots vary in size (ranging from two inches to three feet), colour (orange, white, yellow, etc) and species. They contain a wide range of vitamins including B1, B2, C, D and E which are antioxidants that reduce free radicals, cell damage as well as heal and nourish the skin. Carrots are extremely rich in potassium and contain magnesium, vitamin B6, folic acid, thiamine, and cholesterol reducing calcium pectate.
Over the years people have enjoyed the sweet crunchy taste of carrots but recently, as a result of further study in chemistry and more research, are finding out that there’s more to gain than just good eye sight. Its richness and beneficial qualities could be optimized. Let’s take a look at some of the rich goodness of carrots together.
1. Anti-cancer
Carrots contain a substance called Falcarinol. Falcarinol is a natural pesticide produced by the carrot that protects its roots from fungal diseases, and it is largely responsible for preventing cancer.
2. Improve vision
The lack of vitamin A in the retina leads to night blindness. The beta-carotene in carrots is converted in the liver to vitamin A which is vital for the eyes and also protects them against macular degeneration. Vitamin A is transformed in the retina, to rhodopsin, a purple pigment necessary for night vision.
3. Prevents Heart diseases
For those who don’t like garlic, this might come as a relief. Studies have shown that diets high in carotenoids are associated with lower risk of heart diseases. Carrots help to reduce LDL cholesterol levels, leading to clear arteries and blood channels, and reducing the risk of stroke.
4. Nourish skin
Carrots contain strong cleansing properties effective in detoxifying the liver, thus treating acne caused by toxins from the blood. They are useful for treating uneven skin tones due to pigmentation, dry skin and other skin blemishes. I must admit, I felt like purchasing a ton of carrots everyday when I discovered this.
5. Anti-ageing
Did the ladies just smile? Beta-carotene from carrots are antioxidants that fight free radicals thereby helping to slow down the ageing cells and various negative effects associated with ageing.
6. Dental health
Carrots help to clean the teeth after meals as they are natural abrasives that help remove dirt and plagues from the teeth and gum. They also trigger saliva and contain minerals that help kill germs in the mouth, preventing tooth damage. I guess that explains Bugs Bunny’s large but healthy teeth.
These are to mention but a few of the delicious crunchy benefits of carrots. In this age of dieting and eating to stay healthy and well, I hope we can now pay more attention to this simple vegetable. Go crunchy and stay healthy!
