Are you fond of Carrots ?? Here’s a quick peek into it’s Nutritional Value.
Carrots form an essential ingredient of our salads and what makes them all the more likeable, is their sweet taste and crunchy texture. They are light on stomach, yet so satiating. They are full of nutrients and hence, have a high nutritional value.
Carrots provide healthy calories and aid in weight loss. They have anti-oxidants, vitamin A, C, K and minerals like potassium and calcium. All these nutrients not just make carrots healthful and good for consumption but also, give them healing properties. Carrot extracts and juices are extensively used in the beauty and cosmetic industry for making lotions, shampoos, face packs, creams etc.
Carrots can be relished on, anywhere, anytime and in any form. They are eaten raw in salads, juices, smoothies; cooked to make curries, soups, pickles, desserts, cakes and what not.
They are a super food with many benefits.
So, Let’s have a look at the nutritional value of a 100 gms serving of this vegetable.
CARROT NUTRITION CHART |
|
| Amount per 100 gms | |
| 41 Calories | |
| Carbohydrates | 9.58 gms |
| Proteins | 0.93 gms |
| Fats | 0.24 gms |
| Fibre | 2.80 gms |
| Vitamins | Vitamin A (Major) |
| Vitamin B6, C, E, K (Minor) | |
| Minerals | Potassium, Sodium, Calcium (Major) |
| Magnesium, Iron, Zinc (Minor) | |
The Benefits
- Carrots are rich in beta carotene – an antioxidant that fights against damage causing free radicals.Thus, helping in reducing the risk of cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
- Studies suggest that intake of beta carotene regulates blood sugar. Carrots contain these in ample amounts and despite being sweet, they have a lower glycemic index (A carbohydrate rich food’s ability to raise/ impact blood sugar levels) which makes them safe for consumption for people with diabetes.
- Carrots contain soluble fibre which helps in controlling cholesterol.
- Potassium, Vitamin C and Fibre in carrots help in regulating blood pressure.
- Carrots have keratin that fights tooth decay. It acts as a natural toothbrush thus keeping the teeth clean from plaque and cavities. Also, carrots have calcium and vitamin A that make them great for strengthening teeth and bones.
- Vitamin C and A help in collagen synthesis that is responsible for skin’s elasticity. These vitamins also, cater to dry, damaged and aged skin. Hence, carrot consumption can ensure you a healthy and bright skin.
- Carrots are great for hair. There consumption as well as application is beneficial. Vitamin A in carrots helps in sebum production that conditions hair, helps in preventing hair loss and premature greying. Then other vitamins like C, B and E with minerals like magnesium, zinc nourish scalp, promote blood flow and aid in hair growth.
- Here’s another reason for adding carrots to your daily diet. Vitamin A in carrots promotes healthy eyesight. A lack of this vitamin can lead to cataracts and a condition called Xerophthalmia that affects eyesight and causes night blindness.
- Eating carrots can aid in weight loss.
The Side Effects
- Large consumption of carrots can cause a change in skin colour due to high amount of carotene.
- Eating too much of it can lead to increased glucose and blood sugar levels.
- Carrots contain fibre which is good for digestion but when it’s in excess, it can disrupt the bowel system.
- The high fibre content prevents the absorption of other nutrients thus causing their deficiency. Hence, carrots need to be eaten in moderation.
- Carrots can cause allergy to some thus leading to rashes, nausea, swelling etc.
Best Time To Eat
Any time of the day or before a major meal.
Recipes
Carrot Juice, Smoothies, Halwa, Salads, Pickle, Curries, Cakes, Desserts.
