Until recently, it was believed that the main benefit of carrots was related to vision. Recent research showed that those with high consumption of carrots have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease due to beta-carotene, which is responsible of the color in this vegetable.
Bugs Bunny’s favorite vegetable has always had a good reputation. Whether in salads, casseroles or side dishes, carrots are usually present at lunch or dinner. Many restaurants even offer it as a snack in the children’s menu.
More than Vision In addition to its taste, carrots are an excellent choice because of their health properties. Its most popular benefit is related to vision. However, research by Wageningen University in Holland found that people who eat enough carrots are able to reduce the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. “The decline in mortality is related to the consumption of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that is present in carrots and some green leafy vegetables. However, previous studies showed that beta-carotene supplements did not reduce the risk,” explained Dr. Brian Buijsse, who analyzed a European study that was conducted for 10 years.
In total, 1168 men and women were interviewed. Over ten years, 148 participants died due to a heart problem. People who consumed large amounts of beta-carotene had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
The report of Wageningen University explains that carotene is the substance responsible of the orange color in carrots, but is also found in some leafy vegetables. An increase of carotene-rich foods in the diet lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A Matter of the Heart
Carrots have a high nutrition value. They have water and carbohydrates, although the latter are reduced by cooking.
When absorbed, betacarotene is metabolized by the body into vitamin A. In addition, it has vitamins E, B and minerals, like potassium and, in smaller amounts, phosphorous, magnesium, iodine, and calcium.
If it’s a matter of the heart, it seems sensible not to leave carrots out of your plate. Surely, including carrots in your diet will be a wise decision your health will be “thankful” for.
