Carrots get their colour from antioxidants called carotenoids. One of these carotenoids is beta carotene, a precursor to active vitamin A that is responsible for many of the carrot and carrot juice benefits that we know about today. Studies have shown that the benefits of carrot juice varies from improving immunity in the body, protecting skin and eye health to fighting free radical damage that can cause various forms of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Nutritional Benefits of Carrot Juice
Carrots are one of the highest contributors of vitamin A — the powerhouse vitamin for so much of our body — in the American diet. They also provide ample amounts of vitamins C, D, E and K, as well as many minerals such as magnesium, potassium and calcium. Carrots are also highly nutritious and cleansing due to their high fibre content. Regularly consuming carrots or carrot juice benefits the body in so many amazing ways. Here are some great reasons to include this superfood vegetable in your diet:
Protects Eye Health
Three crucial nutrients — beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin — within carrots considerably boost eye health. For example, without beta carotene (a form of vitamin A), various forms of eye disorders can occur — including ocular degeneration and even blindness. Lutein and zeaxanthin, meanwhile, both work to reduce the risk of age- related vision loss.
Just one cup of chopped carrots provides 400% of your vitamin A needs! Carrots contain vitamin A in the form of beta carotene. Vitamin A is one of the most crucial nutrients necessary for protecting eye health and vision, especially as someone ages.
High Source of Antioxidants (Especially Beta Carotene)
Carotenoids, found in carrots and other orange vegetables, are potent antioxidants that can help reduce your risk of various forms of temporary illnesses and serious chronic diseases. Carrots and carrot juice benefit the immune system by helping to defend the body from free radical damage, harmful bacteria, viruses and inflammation.
Decreases Risk for Heart Disease and Stroke
Eating more deeply coloured orange vegetables like carrots decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially in adult women. Regardless of other cardiovascular risks, current research indicates that drinking carrot juice benefits heart health by lowering oxidative stress and improving the body’s defense against various forms of cardiovascular disease.
Carrots also work to lower cholesterol, and boost bile production, which increases the body’s ability to digest fat. This effect is likely due to the high antioxidant content that carrots contain.
Helps Protect Against Cancer
Evidence suggests that consuming high levels of carotenoids from fruits and vegetables can be protective in relation to cancer recurrence. Studies show that these antioxidants in carrots may be able to fight leukemia cells and may play a role in reducing your risk of some of the most widespread types of cancers, including ovarian and breast cancer.
One study observed the effects of women with a history of breast cancer consuming eight ounces of fresh orange juice and carrot juice daily for a three-week period.
Important for Maintaining Oral Health
The nutrients found in carrots help improve immunity, including the body’s ability to fight bacteria and toxins that enter through the mouth and live within the gums and teeth. Certain minerals in carrots can be antibacterial and help prevent cavities and tooth decay. Carrots can also help remove plaque and stains from teeth if eaten after meals. The fibre in carrots also boosts immunity by acting as a natural digestive system brush to promote better digestion of immune- boosting nutrients.
Boosts Skin Health and Wound Healing
Beta carotene is critical for healing any type of wound. Carrots have even been used as a poultice to help heal wounds for centuries due to their high beta carotene.
Frank Afful|Ahotoronline.com
