If you’re like me, you heard all the time as a child to eat your carrots because they were good for our eyes.
And while this is true, they can benefit us in so many other ways.
Vision is of course a top benefit
Just one large carrot or 1 cup, can provide us with 100% of the daily target for vitamin A. This important nutrient (which acts as a cell-protective antioxidant) may even help protect against cancer, age-related macular degeneration, and measles. A deficiency of vitamin A can lead to a condition called xerophthalmia, which can damage normal vision and result in night blindness.1
They’re known to help with weight management
In addition to the fiber carrots provide, they’re chock-full of water—a carrot is actually 88% water. This combination boosts fullness, which in turn results in us eating less.
They can help regulate blood pressure
The potassium in carrots plays a key role in regulating blood pressure. Potassium balances sodium levels and helps sweep excess sodium and fluid out of the body, which takes the pressure off the heart. This also makes carrots a good choice if you want to de-bloat after consuming too much salty food.
They can support your immune system
Carrots have ample amounts of Vitamin A & C.
The vitamin C in carrots helps keep your immune system healthy. Vitamin A supports the immune system by playing an important role in forming and protecting mucous membranes. Mucous membranes act as barriers to keep germs out of the body. They make up the lining of the respiratory, digestive, and urogenital tracts
They may help boost brain health
Natural compounds in carrots have been shown to act as anti-inflammatories. One of them is lutein—that same antioxidant that protects the retina from macular degeneration—and it may be involved in brain function, too.
They can potentially reduce the risk of heart disease
One review article published in the journal Foods in 2019 reported that the phenolic compounds in carrots have the potential to reduce cardiovascular diseases. These compounds have antioxidant properties, which also help maintain normal blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Carrots are full of benefits. They may promote healthy vision, balance your blood sugar, help with weight management, lower your risk of cancer, regulate blood pressure and so much more.
You won’t regret incorporating more of this vegetable into your diet.
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