The carrot is often said to help the tanned skin and is good for the eyes, but beyond these results, most people are unaware of the numerous health benefits of carrot.
Steamed, boiled, raw, cooked, liquefied, or simply fresh and snacks, the carrot is part of the group of foods with “promising results” in the prevention of some types of cancer, according to the WHO’s World Cancer Report 2014. Along with spinach and tomatoes, vegetables that also contain carotenoids, serve to prevent breast cancer.
Another report from the University of Newcastle (United Kingdom) says that if it is cooked whole and then chopped, contains 25% more falcarinol, a compound that protects the vegetable against fungal attack and in our body acts as a protector against the development of certain types of tumors.
It is one of the most produced vegetables in the world. Asia is the largest producer, followed by Europe and the United States. The habitual consumption of the carrot contributes an important quantity of vitamins (A, B, C, and E), minerals, and antioxidant compounds, and its caloric value is very low (100 grams equals about 33 kcal).
7 Benefits of Carrot Consumption
1. Healthy Appetite
The aromas of the carrot stimulate the appetite.
2. Strong Teeth
Eating raw, strengthens teeth and gums. Eating raw vegetables such as carrots improves oral blood flow and prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth. In addition, fluoride, present in foods such as carrots, spinach, or apples, is a fundamental mineral to keep tooth enamel in good condition and prevents the appearance of decay.
3. Constipation and Gastritis
It helps fight constipation and stomach pain due to intoxication. Its high fiber content increases the amount of fecal matter and prevents constipation. Besides, it calms gastric discomfort and excess acidity due to mineral salts such as sodium, chlorine, potassium, and B vitamins. Therefore, it is a highly recommended food if you have gastritis.
4. Prevent Kidney Stones
Due to its high water content, it is diuretic and helps the disintegration of kidney stones.
5. Refresh Mind
Rich in potassium and phosphorus, it is an excellent energizer for tired minds and nerve restoring.
6. Strong Nails and Hair
The carrot strengthens the nails and hair; and gives shine. Carrot stem cells are rich in beta-carotene, also called provitamin A, which transformed into retinol or Vitamin A in our body. These compounds repair cells damaged by environmental effects and thus strengthen and revitalize the nails and hair. Vitamin A helps in the production of sebum, beneficial for the scalp.
7. Improve Breast Milk
Beta-carotene and vitamin A improve the biological quality of breast milk, according to Mario García, a doctor in Pharmacy and expert in Food Safety. The intake of beta-carotene, minerals, and carrot enzymes favor the healthy production of breast milk.
And besides all that, yes, the carrot is also good for the eyes. Behind that old recommendation hides the authentic essence of carrots. Beta-carotene is a powerful protectant that prevents premature aging. They will not give us the sight of a bird, but they will protect our retina and prevent the appearance of cataracts. Daily carrot intake is especially recommended in cases of loss of visual acuity and twilight blindness (difficulty seeing at night or in low light). The World Health Organisation (WHO) considers that vitamin A deficiency is the most important cause of childhood blindness in developing countries.
Not only the carrot but the benefits of carrot juice cannot be ignored, so note of this recipe of carrot and cocoa juice.
Carrot and Cocoa Juice
The antioxidant benefits of carrot juice with the invigorating cocoa:
Ingredients for 4 people
– 560 g of carrot
– 220 g of Orange
– 10 g of Ginger
– Chives
– Sugar-free cocoa powder
How to Make Carrot and Cocoa Juice?
1. Peel the carrots and pass them through the blender. Then liquefy the piece of peeled ginger root.
2. Squeeze the oranges and reserve a glass of that juice.
3. Mix the three juices in a jar.
4. Wet the edge of the 4 glasses with the reserved orange juice and then pass them through a flat dish in which the cocoa powder is.
5. Serve the juice in the glasses and decorate with a branch of chives.
We believe you’ll take the benefits of carrot. If you have something to say, please leave a comment.