Carrots are not all about satisfying your vegetable or sugar desire. They also have some amazing health benefits.
Here are 10 of them:
- Improves vision
Carrots contain beta-carotene which is good for vision. A study found that people who eat the most beta-carotene had 40 percent lower risk of macular degeneration (fighting blindness) than those who consumed little.
- Anti-aging vegetable
Research suggests that because carrots contain high level of beta-carotene it can act as an antioxidant to cell damage done to the body through regular metabolism, hence, acting as an anti-aging agent.
- Prevents cancer
Individuals who eat carrots have low risk of having lung, breast and colon cancer. Research has shown that carrots contain phytonutrients called polyacetylenes and other components that inhibit cancer growth. Most studies recommend that consuming one and one-half cups of carrot juice daily for a few weeks will produce significant positive results in the body.
- Cleanse the body
Since most vegetable cleanse the insides of the body, it should not come as a surprise that carrots do the same. The Vitamin A contained in it assists the liver in flushing out toxins from the body. It also reduces the bile and fat in the liver.
- Prevents gum diseases
Because of the crunchy nature of carrots when eaten, it scrapes off plaque and food particles and thus helps keep the teeth and gums clean. Studies also revealed that carrots are a good source of vitamin C, a water-soluble antioxidant that helps maintain healthy connective tissue of teeth and gums.
- Maintains skin health
Lack of vitamin A in the body can cause dryness to the skin, hair and nails. Since carrots contain this essential mineral, it acts as antioxidants that can protect the skin from sun damage. Vitamin A also prevents premature wrinkling, acne, dry skin, pigmentation, blemishes and uneven skin tone.
- Prevents heart disease
Carrots do not only contain beta-carotene but also alpha-carotene and lutein that can help in the prevention of heart diseases.
- Prevents stroke
A study by Harvard University claims that people who ate more than six carrots a week are less likely to suffer a stroke than those who ate only one carrot a month or less. It is advisable that older men and women take carrot juice every day to prevent suffering from stroke.
- Improves digestive system
The fibre in carrots aids easy flow and movement in the digestive system. Regular consumption of carrots will help keep bowel movements regular, prevent constipation and acid reflux, and protect your colon and stomach from various illnesses.
- Regulates blood sugar
Although carrots have high sugar contents, it is still a healthy choice for individuals, even diabetic patients. Carrots contain natural sugar that can be easily assimilated and they also have a very low glycaemic load. In addition carotenoids present in carrots help regulate blood sugar. Carotenoids inversely affect insulin resistance and thus help lower blood sugar.
