Carrot Juice Benefits
One of the most popular vegetables on the planet are carrots. They are widely available all year round and can be consumed raw or cooked. People across the globe have consumed carrots for centuries chiefly because they are easy to grow; they are nutritious and have several health benefits. While carrots are most often recognized because of their signature orange color, they actually can be of many colors including, white, yellow, red or even purple. Over the years, many anecdotal reports have appeared suggesting that carrots have many health benefits. And one of the ways to derive these benefits is by consuming carrot juice.
Carrots have been extensively studied and are found to contain a high concentration of beta-carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A. This particular vitamin has strong antioxidant activity and is able to scavenge free radicals and prevent several chronic disorders like heart disease and even cancer. In addition, carrots have also been found to contain ample amounts of vitamins C, D, E, K, lutein, zeaxanthin, as well as minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. The one big advantage of consuming carrot is that they are low in calories and high in fiber content.
Nutritionists suggest that the best way to get the health benefits from carrots is to juice them. The reason is that juice form is highly concentrated with beta-carotene. Plus, unlike raw or cooked carrots, the juice is also more rapidly absorbed from the intestine.
Table of Contents
Health benefits of drinking carrot juice
Protect the eye
There is now ample evidence indicating that carrots not only prevent certain eye disorders but also maintain good eye health. Carrots contain three key ingredients – beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein which are known to prevent the development of acute macular degeneration and delay onset of cataracts. The beta-carotene is essential for prevention of night blindness.
Prevent infections
The presence of carotenoids in carrot juice can prevent common infections like the cold and skin infections. Carrot juice can enhance the effects of the immune system so you remain protected against both viruses and bacteria.
Cancer prevention
The strong antioxidants in carrot juice can also help prevent damage to the cellular DNA and thus prevent certain cancers. It is important to note that carrot juice does not cure cancer but only prevents or delays the onset of cancer.
Decrease risk of heart disease and stroke
When you drink carrot juice regularly, it can help prevent deposition of cholesterol in your blood vessels- this helps prevent atherosclerosis and reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease. The beta-carotene in carrot juice also prevents oxidative damage to blood vessels.
Enhances wound healing
The presence of beta-carotene and vitamin C in carrot juice is also beneficial for wound healing. In addition, the vitamin C enhances collagen growth, which results in a fresh, smooth, and younger-looking skin. Individuals who have chronic wounds that have failed to heal with conservative measures may find carrot juice helpful in wound closure.
Oral health
Drinking carrot juice improves the health of the gums and teeth because of the presence of vitamin C and calcium. Further regular consumption of carrot juice prevents gum disease and cavities.
Constipation
Because of the high fiber content in carrot juice, it is a great way to prevent constipation and ensure regular bowel movements.
Better cognitive functions
Finally, people who drink carrot juice regularly also tend to have better cognitive functions like improved memory, concentration, and retention of memory.
Recommended dosage and the side effect of carrot juice
Carrot juice is relatively safe. It is recommended that one drink a glass of carrot juice every day to derive the health benefits. However, regular consumption may induce a mild side effect which is a change in skin color, which is harmless.
Conclusion
While carrot juice has many health benefits it is important not to rely on just one food for overall health. At the same time, one should eat a healthy diet, discontinue smoking and exercise regularly.
