6 Reasons To Start Consuming Carrots

Did you know that, in addition to being a perfect ally to prevent skin aging, carrots help us protect our sight and take care of our eyes?

The carrot is one of the most used vegetables in all the kitchens of the world. It is native to Central Asia, but today it is cultivated in almost all countries. For this reason, it is easy to find in any supermarket, at any time of the year. Added to this, its delicious flavor and versatility allow carrot to be consumed in hundreds of different recipes.

Beyond that, it is proven that it has a high nutritional value that can be used medicinally. For this reason, it is not surprising that movements such as real food (‘real food’) and nutrigenetics take it into account, along with other foods.

It stands out mainly for its high content of vitamin A, which is found naturally in carotenes , but which is stored as this nutrient when it reaches the body. However, apart from vitamin A, carrots contain other healthy compounds that are worth knowing and taking into account. Do you want to know which ones? Then don’t stop reading more below!

Nutritional properties when consuming carrot

Because it has a delicious flavor that goes very well with other foods, carrots are one of the vegetables that are consumed the most without problem on a day-to-day basis. Despite this, there are those who prefer not to consume carrot on a regular basis or else ignore how beneficial it can be to include it in the diet.

One of the reasons why it is perfect for a balanced diet is because it is very low in calories, sodium and carbohydrates. A medium serving is estimated to provide just 50 calories.

It does not contain cholesterol or saturated fat, which makes it ideal for people who are at risk or are suffering from some type of cardiovascular problem.

Just half a cup of this raw vegetable provides up to four times the recommended daily amount of vitamin A, in addition to containing significant amounts of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, manganese, iron, potassium and copper. Do you need more reasons to eat it?

According to experts from the Spanish Nutrition Foundation (FEN) “other vitamins present in more discrete amounts are vitamin C and vitamin B6. They also contain small amounts of minerals such as iron, iodine and potassium ”.

6 reasons to eat more carrots every day

Prevents aging

Its high concentrations of beta-carotenes, a substance that is converted into vitamin A upon reaching the body, could help prevent premature aging of internal organs and skin.

It is diuretic

Its diuretic effect makes it perfect for cleaning the kidneys, preventing fluid retention and speeding up the disintegration of dangerous kidney stones.

Improves visual health

It is known that for good visual health it is very important to provide the body with a daily amount of vitamin A. Because it is so rich in this nutrient, carrots are an ally of good sight and eye care.

This is pointed out by a study published in JAMA Ophthalmology , which highlights that carotenoids can reduce the risk of macular degeneration associated with age. 

Prevents cardiovascular problems

Being low in sodium, rich in water, vitamins and minerals, this vegetable can help lower bad cholesterol and prevent strokes and heart attacks.

Weight loss support

Its antioxidants, vitamins, fiber and minerals support the diet of those who are looking to lose weight without undergoing strict diets. However, it is not a miracle food and its effects are only noticeable when its consumption is supported by a healthy diet and exercise.

Skin beauty

The antioxidant and healing compounds it contains make it a good ally for skin health, both internally and externally.

How to consume carrot without getting bored

In addition to taking advantage of fresh carrots to make sticks to dip with hummus , or some other spread, we can take advantage of them in the following ways.

The carrot can be eaten raw or cooked, although the first option is the one that is most recommended because it concentrates all its nutrients. The second option is delicious -because it is sweeter-, but it is not ideal for day to day.

To take advantage of its benefits, it can be included in recipes such as:

• Salads
• Juices
• Creams
• Soups
• Stews
• Fillings.
• Desserts.
• Rice

Carrot juice

One of the most suitable and delicious ways to consume carrot every day is by preparing its juice.

To do this, just pass a few carrots through an extractor and drink the 100% concentrated juice. If you don’t have a device like this, they can be processed with a little water in the blender.

Mashed carrots

It can be cooked until tender and mixed with other ingredients to make a puree. This can be eaten during lunch or dinner, but can also be used to prepare skin masks.

In the latter case, it is enough to clean the face well and apply an even layer of the paste mixed with a little honey, and let it act for 15 minutes before removing it with warm water.

Now that you know a little more about the contributions of carrots … will you dare to include it more frequently in your meals? Try to do it! Not only will it help you to vary the menu but it will also allow you to obtain various nutrients to strengthen your health.