Health Benefits of Carrots

The carrot is a root vegetable normally found in orange color. It is known scientifically as Daucus carota and belongs to the Umbelliferae family. Carrots come in a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes. Carrots come from biennial plants that only flower every two years. In the first year the plant produces the edible root and a leafy top. If a carrot plant is left in the ground for another year, it flowers and seeds are produced. However, it is also seen in purple, red, white or yellow varieties. Carrots are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, dietary fiber and minerals and can be consumed as raw, juiced or cooked. Carrots are an excellent source for carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the human body. It is also rich in vitamins B1, B2, C, D and E which are antioxidants that reduce free radicals cell damage and heal and nourish the skin. It also has potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, thiamine, Folic acid, iron, copper, phosphorus and sulphur. However, too much consumption of this vegetable can cause a condition known as “carotoderma" in which the skin takes on an orange hue from having too much carotene in the blood. Some of the largest producers of carrots in the World are United States, France, England, Poland, China and Japan.

Consuming Carrots are known to be good for the overall health and specially organs like the skin, eyes, digestive system and teeth. Carrot is used in several Juice Therapy Remedies for diseases. Given below are some benefits of this Vegetable.

• Carrots are rich in Beta carotene which is a powerful antioxidant which helps in maintaining a healthy skin and also keep one away from many diseases.

• Carrots are rich in alkaline elements which purify and revitalize the blood. They balance the acid alkaline ratio in the body.

• Carrots have Potassium in it which helps to balance the high levels of sodium associated with hypertension and keeps blood pressure under control.

• The high soluble fiber content in carrot, it reduces cholesterol by binding LDL, the bad cholesterol, and also increases the HDL which helps in reducing blood clots and heart diseases.

• Carrots are great for dental health as they kill harmful germs in the mouth and prevent tooth decay.

• Carrots aid digestion by increasing saliva and supplying the minerals, vitamins and enzymes required for it. Regular consumption of carrots helps in preventing gastric ulcers and digestive disorders.

• Raw carrots are used as a home remedy for treating worms in children.

• Raw or grated carrots can be used for wounds, cuts and inflammation.

• Carrots are rich in Carotenoids which are beneficial to blood sugar regulation.

• Carrots contain a phyto-nutrient called falcarinol which helps in promoting colon health and a reducing the risk of cancers.

• Consuming carrots regularly are known to improve the quality of breast milk in mothers.

• It also helps in increasing the menstrual flow.

• Consuming Carrots regularly can improve the appearance of skin, hair, nails etc and also improve eyesight.

Next time you are tempted to have a Cola, drink a carrot juice and reap its numerous health benefits.