Carrots were not always orange; in fact they used to be purple in colour, until the Dutch altered their colour around the 16th and 17th century. While carrots may not be the most popular or exciting vegetable, they do have some real health benefits when regularly consumed.
Health Benefits of Carrots – Vitamins and Antioxidants
Carrots contain a wide variety of important vitamins, including vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin K. Vitamin A is recognised as being necessary for the immune system to function and to help skin, teeth, growth and development as well as vision. No other vegetable contains as much carotene as carrots, which is what the body then is able to convert into vitamin A. This staple vegetable is able to improve the appearance of skin and help nails and hair grow. Raw carrots are known to contain beta carotene, which is a strong antioxidant that can prevent cancer, while cooked carrots are identified to be a good source of the essential vitamin A.
The old wives' tale about carrots helping one to see in the dark probably relates to the fact that the vitamin A they convert in the body helps with vision. B vitamins found in carrots will also help with maintaining energy levels and concentration.
Carrots also Contain Minerals and Fibre
In addition to vitamins and antioxidants, carrots contain some key minerals, such as potassium, phosphorous and magnesium, as well as being a good source of fibre. Fibre is well-known as being necessary in the diet in order to maintain regular bowel movement and prevent constipation. Potassium is a very important mineral found in carrots, being necessary to achieve electrolyte balance, which is especially significant in those suffering from the eating disorders anorexia or bulimia. Phosphorous is also recognised as being necessary for electrolyte balance and is important for healthy skin and hair.
Carrots also contain magnesium, which (along with calcium) is important for maintaining healthy bones and bone strength. Magnesium is also important in the digestion of fats in the body and plays a part in mental development.
As highlighted above, carrots have a wide variety of health benefits, as they contain antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre. Carrots contain carotene which is converted into vitamin A by the body and helps keep eyes, skin and teeth healthy, while also playing a role in immune system functioning.
Sources:
Shepphird, S. (2010) 100 Questions & Answers About Anorexia Nervosa Massachusetts: Jones and Bartlett
The UK Carrot Museum
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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