Learn more about the benefits of carrots. Carrots are one of the most popular and widely consumed vegetables in the world. They are often eaten raw and used as an additive to enrich soups, stews, casseroles, sauces, gravies, stuffing and meat dishes.
What makes them so special? Why do people love them so much? It’s really quite simple: they are just plain… good! They’re nutritious, cheap, easy to eat, easy to grow and add an awesome aroma to food. People love carrots for all these reasons, but there is one more that is super important. They contain an amazing compound called beta-carotene which is the source of the yellow, orange and red colours in this vegetable.
Carrots also have a long history as a folk medicine for treating anemia, arthritis, constipation, coughs, colds, high blood pressure, hemorrhoids, indigestion, insomnia, kidney stones, obesity, PMS, stress and tiredness.
Some more health benefits of carrots include:
- They are good for your eyes: high in vitamin A, they keep your eyes healthy and protect them from macular degeneration, cataracts and the sun.
- They boost your immune system: they are high in vitamin C which helps your body fight infections by building anti-bodies in your system.
- They can help relieve constipation by making you go regularly to the toilet as they are high in fibre.
- They can help to strengthen your bones: they contain calcium and vitamin k which are good for bone health and can help to prevent osteoporosis.
- They contain antioxidants: antioxidants lower the risk of different types of cancers developing.
- They help your heart: antioxidants are also good for heart health. The potassium in carrots helps to keep your blood pressure in check. And, as previously mentioned, they are high in fibre, which helps to lower your weight, reducing the chances of getting heart disease.
- They can help to control diabetes: as mentioned, carrots contain vitamin A and are high in fibre, both of which can help to lower diabetes.
What are the risks?
Carrots contain beta-carotene which is a red orange pigment that gives vegetables their vibrant colours. When you get too much of it in your diet, it can turn your skin orange. In most cases, this condition is harmless and easily treated. But in rare cases, it can interfere with vitamin A’s ability to do its job and cause serious health problems.
Some people can be allergic to carrots, so be cautious when consuming them. Symptoms of allergic reactions including hives, swelling, an itchy mouth and difficulty breathing may arise. If you experience any of these symptoms seek medical attention immediately.
Summary
Carrots are the perfect snack. They’re crunchy, full of nutrients, low in calories and sweet. They’re great for your eyes and promote good health in general. They come in different colours, sizes, and shapes, all of which are great additions to a healthy diet.
Enjoy eating this wonderful vegetable!
