Carrots (veggies): a great health and weight loss partner

Vitamin A also takes part in the processes of producing eye pigment, so it is generally known that carrots are good f or the eyesight. Carrots are extremely rich source of vitamin A and carotene. 100 grams of fresh carrots contain 8285micrograms beta-carotene and 16,706 international units of vitamin A. Carotenes are transformed into vitamin A in the liver. Beta-carotene is the main carotene contained in these roots. Beta-carotene is one of the powerful, natural antioxidants that protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. Beta-carotene consumption has been shown to have an inverse association with the development of colon cancer in the Japanese population. Among younger men, diets rich in beta-carotene may play a protective role against prostate cancer, according to a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health's Department of Nutrition.

• Vitamin and mineral source. Besides vitamin A, this root vegetable contains a solid amount of B vitamins, such as folic acid, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), thiamin, pantothenic acid, etc. These substances are important because they function as cofactors of enzymes in metabolic processes in the body. Fresh roots also contain a certain amount of vitamin C, i.e. provide about 9 percent of the recommended daily intake. Vitamin C is a water soluble antioxidant. Carrots also contain a healthy amount of minerals, including copper, calcium, potassium, manganese and phosphorus. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids and helps controlling the rhythm of the heart, by neutralising the effects of sodium. The body uses manganese as a cofactor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.
• Prevent diseases and cancer. Its antioxidant properties help the body protect itself from diseases and cancers, collecting harmful free radicals. Studies have shown that flavonoid compounds in carrots help preventing skin, lung and oral cavity cancer. Carrots are rich in polyacetylene antioxidant falcarinol. Scientific research showed that falcarinol in carrots may help in the fight against cancer, destroying pre-cancer cells in tumours. One study found that current smokers who did not consume carrots had three times the risk of developing lung cancer compared with those who ate carrots more than once a week.
• Coagulation properties. Carrots are also enriched on vitamin K, which has influence on blood coagulation and wound healing.
• Fiber source. Its high content on fiber help digestion, and also prevent colon cancer. Fiber and chromium, contained in this healthy root vegetable play important role in stabilization of glycemia. This combination is particularly necessary when it comes to dealing with hunger attacks and diabetes control.
• Leukemia. Carrot juice extract was shown to kill leukemia cells and inhibit their progression in a 2011 study.
• Other possible benefits. The antioxidants and phytochemicals in carrots may also help with blood sugar regulation, delay the effects of aging, and improve immune function. It also helps the body to maintain the health of the connective tissue, teeth and gums.
• LOW CALORIE CONTENT - "THE GREATEST WEIGHT LOSS PARTNER". Sweet and juicy, carrots are extremely healthy because as we mentioned before they are enriched in antioxidants, vitamins and fiber, and most important 100 grams contain only contains ~ 41calories, negligible amounts of fat and no cholesterol. This makes of carrots the perfect companion on weight loss plans and healthy lifestyles.

You could also try to substitute or alternate carrots with any other veggies, such as tomato, lettuce, etc etc. or even fruits and you will probably get very similar properties and results to the ones describe here. 

Related links

. What are the health benefits of carrots?

. Carrots - the world's healthiest foods

. Benefits of vegetables and fruits