December 24, 2017

Benefits of Carrot: Information, Nutrients

As most of us know, the carrot is a root vegetable. It is one of the healthy foods as well. As compared to cooked form, this veggie tastes excellent when consumed fresh. Many of us know that carrots are healthy for eyes. Do you know the reason? It is a brilliant cradle of vitamin A and Beta-carotene. Further, the antioxidant and potassium content of the vegetable makes it a healthy option though.

Many of us come across the orange-coloured carrots. But, they are available in other colours as well. The shades include red, white, purple and yellow. The vegetable gets its orange colour from the beta-carotene. This antioxidant then converts to vitamin A in the human body.

What are the nutrients in carrot?

The high water content in this vegetable makes it a healthy food. Studies show that the water content is around 86-95%. The portion of this veggie that is suitable for human consumption contains nearly 10% carbohydrates. It also includes a little level protein and fat.

A medium-sized carrot of around 61 grams weight contains 25 calories with only 4 grams of digestive carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates:

Carrot encompasses mainly carbohydrates and water. The former has sugars like glucose and sucrose. A medium-sized carrot has about 2 grams of fibre. Even though this vegetable is rich in carbohydrate, it is a dependable vegetable for diabetic patients. The reason is that these veggies are low in glycemic index. The index is moderate in raw carrots but high to a certain extent in cooked carrots and even higher in pureed carrots. So, diabetic patients can take this vegetable as fresh veggies without fear of sudden blood sugar hikes.

Fibre Content:

In carrots, the presence of pectin makes the vegetable rich in soluble fibre, which can bring down the blood sugar levels. It does it by slowing down the digestion of starch and sugar. Further, the fibre content helps carrots to feed the healthy bacteria in the gut. In turn, it reduces the risk of diseases and improves health.

It will also help with lowering the blood cholesterol levels. Yes, some soluble fibres can stop the absorption of cholesterol from the digestive tract. Cellulose is the vital insoluble fibre in carrots. The other insoluble fibres are lignin and hemicellulose. They help with reducing the chances of constipation, by regularising the healthy bowel movements.

How about minerals and vitamins in carrots?

When you are on the verge of understanding the health benefits of carrots, you should know what contributes to the health benefits. Thanks to the enormous quantity of minerals and vitamins present in carrots. Notably, they are rich in Vitamin A, vitamin B6, potassium and vitamin K.

Vitamin A: The beta-carotene content in carrots gets converted into vitamin A. Your body turns it and promotes healthy vision. It will also help with improving development, growth and immune functions in your body.
Biotin: It is one of the B-vitamins, and it was previously vitamin H. It can play a crucial role in protein and fat metabolism in your body.
Vitamin K: Otherwise called Phylloquinone, the K vitamin is critical in improving bone health and also for blood coagulation.
Potassium: When it comes to blood pressure control, potassium plays an essential role.
Vitamin B6: The conversion of food into energy happens in your body with the help of a group of related vitamins jointly called vitamin B6.