Carrots are a root vegetable normally orange in color that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can also be found in the colours purple, yellow, and red which are great for roasting! They have a crunch to them and a slightly sweet taste.
When it comes to health, carrots are normally associated with overall eye health because of their high Vitamin A and carotenoid (antioxidant) content (study here). The high carotenoid content in carrots can also be associated with turning the skin a yellow/orange-y color. There is no harm associated with this, but it is the result of consuming carotene rich foods. Once you reduce your carotene intake, the skin clears.
Antioxidants
Carotenoids are a type of antioxidant that are very beneficial to the skin and digestive system.
Free radicals// Free radicals are produced in the body (exposure to sun, exercise, damage to cell). Too many free radicals cause oxidative damage to healthy tissues and induces aging. For those who enjoy chemistry: Free radicals are an unpaired electron in orbit around the nucleus of an atom. In order to regain balance, antioxidants are able to neutralize free radicals and protect the cell from oxidation.
Nutrients// Based on 1 medium carrot
—–>Dietary Fibre// 1.5g (6% DV)
—–>Vitamin A// over 200% DV
—–>Vitamin C// 6% DV
—–>Potassium// 5% DV
—–>Vitamin B6// 5% DV
Although those are the major nutrients, carrots contain other vitamins and minerals.
How to select// Choose carrots that are firm and have a rich orange color
How to store// Store carrots in refrigerator for up to 1-3 weeks or until moldy. Washing and pre cutting carrots is great to have for quick access when hungry. Keep in mind they may last about 1 week.
How to eat// Raw, salads, cooked, roasted, juices, smoothies, vegetable and lentil soup
What’s your favorite way to eat carrots?
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