The carrot It is the vegetable with the most beta-carotene or provitamin A, which makes it a great ally for vision and the health of the skin and mucous membranes.
But it also provides vitamins C and E, with an antioxidant effect, as well as vitamin B9 or folic acid: a 100-gram serving covers 110% of the vitamin A needed per day, 13% of C, 5% of E and 10% of folic acid.
Carrot properties
Its very low energy value comes from carbohydrates (5.2%) since its protein and fat content is low.
It is rich in fiber (3.4%), minerals and trace elements (iron, potassium, iodine, magnesium, nickel, sulfur, zinc), malic acid, inositol, phytosterols and an essential oil that gives it its aroma and its vermifuge effects against intestinal parasites.
Nutritional value of carrot
Carrot calories
How many calories does a carrot have? A medium carrot (about 60 g) provides only about 25 calories (105 kJ), so it is an ideal food to maintain weight.
Cutting some carrot sticks is a great option as a snack, since the caloric intake is very low. It must also be taken into account that the carrot practically does not provide fat (2 g per 100)and most of them are omega 6 fatty acids.
Carrot vitamins and minerals
By consuming 100 grams of carrots, you obtain remarkable amounts of the following vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin A: 16705 IU
- Vitamin C: 5.6mg
- Vitamin K: 13.2 mcg
- Vitamin B1: 0.1mg
- Vitamin B3: 1mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.1 mcg
- Vitamin B9 (folic acid): 19 mcg
- Potassium: 320mg
- Calcium: 33mg
Carrot benefits
Carrot is a tonic and remineralizing food. It has alkalizing properties that promote a good acid-base balance in the body.
Ally of sight
The carrot prevents cataracts and the retinal disease called «macular degeneration.» Carrot is also indicated in case of decreased visual acuity, especially at twilight or at night, and in case of photophobia (hypersensitivity to sunlight), conjunctivitis and inflammation of the eyelids.
Regulates digestive disorders
Many think that carrots cause constipation, but this is not true. Actually the carrot It provides a considerable amount of fiber (2.8 grams per 100 g). The confusion exists because it has traditionally been used to treat diarrhea.
Although it may seem contradictory,Carrot is useful both in case of diarrhea and constipation pertinacious.
It is known that in gastroenteritis it is advisable to follow a astringent diet based on rice with carrots, or even on water from boiling carrots.
Besides, against chronic constipation It is useful to take 250 ml of carrot juice to which 50 ml of spinach juice and a few drops of lemon are added, which helps regulate and cleanse the intestinal tract. The effect is seen in one or two months.
However, the benefit of carrot is that it helps regulate intestinal disorders, both in case of constipation, diarrhea or even flatulence. In addition, Carrot helps against digestive disorders such as gastritis.
Helps lungs, liver, bones and skin
Carrots are also beneficial for bronchopulmonary conditions chronicles in general.
Because it contains hypoglycemic substances, diabetics can take it. It is convenient in liver pathologies and helps reduce cholesterol level.
It should also be noted that its calcium is very assimilable by the organism.
The juice or grated pulp acts as a balm against acne and eczema, as well as in cases of ulcers or burns.
It has been shown to improve sun sensitivity in people who have problems tanning or allergic reactions. Its regular consumption stimulates the production of melanin and protects from the harmful effects of the sun.
Regulates menstruation and breastfeeding
When there are irregularities in menstruation it has an activating effect (emmenagogue) and It also promotes breastfeeding.
For defenses, asthenia and anemia
It is recommended in the event of a decrease in defenses or recurrent infectious diseases and also in situations of asthenia.
Due to its iron and copper content, which favors the formation of red blood cells, It is indicated in case of anemia and also to prevent arteriosclerosis, heart attack and other heart diseases.
Helps prevent cancer
The antimutagenic and antitumor properties of beta-carotene and other phytochemicals in carrots, such as coumarins, quercetin or terpenes, have been shown to be effective in preventing cancer, especially of the bladder, larynx, esophagus, stomach, colorectal and prostate.
The carrot in the kitchen
The carrot is a vegetable that can be found all year round on the market, but the most tender and sweet specimens are collected at the end of spring (from may to june).
A intense orange color indicates great content in beta carotenewhile green spots at the end of the root indicate that it has been exposed to the sun and will therefore have a bitter and harsh taste.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, Boil them slightly to improve their intestinal absorption.
Beta-carotene is not destroyed by cooking. On the contrary, the body assimilates it better.
Smoothies are consumed in greater quantities but raw they turn out more nutritious.
Purchase and conservation
The specimens must be firm, bright in color and rather small in size, since they tend to be sweeter.
On the contrary, the Green leaves on top are an indication that the root is fresh. Carrots that are wrinkled and have sprouts should be discarded.
Before storing them, it is advisable to remove any traces of soil with a brush, but Never wash them with water until you are ready to consume them..
They must store in a cool place and above all airybut if possible never next to potatoes or apples, Because the ethylene gas they produce accelerates their deterioration and reduces their sweetness.
If they have been purchased with leaves, must be removed to prevent absorb moisture from the roots and this dry out.
They can be kept in the refrigerator for one or two weeks. in good condition, but if they have to be stored for longer periods of time They can be frozen, previously scalded with boiling water and salt.