Carrots are a cultivated plant in the parsley family with green leaves that grow in the soil. It can be seen at many times of the year, but the main harvest takes place in autumn and winter. It has a special taste and smell and is composed of various colors. Although changes in color provide various contributions, the benefits of carrots are generally found in every color. The nutritional value of this vegetable consists of soluble and insoluble pulp, color pigment, vitamins and minerals.
Carrots contain over 85% water, 10% fiber and sugars, with the remainder containing small amounts of fat, protein, vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin A, carotenoids, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C , vitamin K and folic acid. The color of the carrot is related to the type of carotenoid it contains. Orange carrots, which are generally known, contain beta carotene, a component with high antioxidant levels. It gives the yellow-orange color to the food it contains. A large-sized carrot weighing 55-60 grams gives a calorie energy of 35-40. Carrot potassium, sodium extract is high.
What are the Benefits of Carrot?
Carrot, which contains a large amount of carotene, thus has a strong antioxidant capacity. According to researches, ß-carotene is effective in cancer prevention. Men who consume carrots in large amounts are less at risk of prostate cancer. Women who consume carrots regularly have a lower risk of breast cancer. It is also useful in preventing lung cancer. Quitting smoking and consuming carrots regularly for healthy lungs can be effective in preventing lung cancer. Vitamin A and potassium are very important for the health of the heart. We can list the other benefits of carrots as follows;
- Carrot is very good for eye health.
- It is a nutritious vegetable for those with diabetes.
- It has a fibrous structure, prevents blood sugar from rising rapidly.
- Helps prevent constipation.
- It is very useful for bowel health.
- Protects the skin, provides shine.
- Protects hair health.
- Prevents the spread of cancer.
- Helps to lose weight.
How should carrots be consumed?
Regardless of color, all carrots contain carotenoids. Carotenoids are absorbed in the intestine through fat. Consuming carrots in meals instead of eating them alone allows carotenoids to be absorbed more with fat in the intestine while digesting. Thus, the rate of benefit of the carotenoid increases. Since vitamin E increases the absorption of carotenoids, the oil used for carrots should be olive oil. Carotenoids are more effective at low temperatures. Therefore, carrots grown in winter have more carotene extract than those grown in summer. It can be stored in the refrigerator. You can add products with acidic properties such as lemon and vinegar close to carrot consumption. The healthiest way to consume carrots is raw or cooked and consumed until soft.
What are the Benefits of Carrot Juice?
When the juices of vegetables and fruits are squeezed and consumed, the vitamins and minerals in their essence are absorbed more quickly. 1 glass of carrot juice comes out of 3-4 carrots and consuming carrot juice provides more vitamins than consuming carrots. A glass of carrot juice contains about 650 mg potassium, 45 mg calcium and 20 mg vitamin C. Juiced vegetables and fruits raise blood sugar levels sharply. However, it is very important for blood sugar to be balanced and for the intestines to work well. However, carrot juice should not be consumed continuously for people with diabetes.
How to Clean Carrot?
Carrot is a root vegetable, the consumed side grows in the soil. Microorganisms in the soil may increase on the outside of the carrot. It should be thoroughly cleaned before consumption. Acid damages carotenoids, so it is not appropriate to put carrots in vinegar water. In order to avoid a lack of pulp, the peel of the carrot should not be peeled completely, after washing it thoroughly, the outer side can be scraped slightly with the help of a knife.