Carrots – The orange Powerhouse

Winters are a time for the seasonal favourite fruits and vegetables to take over our platters. One such vegetable we have our hearts set on is the carrot.

What are the benefits of consuming carrots?

Carrots are treasured as they are highly nutritious. They are rich in nutrients like- carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fiber, vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, calcium, magnesium, omega-3, omega-6, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, zinc, folate, Vitamin K. Besides they have 88% water content in them.

They are useful in warding off maladies like –

• Poor Vision
• Decrease the chances of suffering from lung cancer and colorectal cancer
• Help control diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol
• They also slow down the aging process
• Promote healthier skin
• Prevent strokes
• Keep teeth and gums healthy
• Carrots are also useful for people who have heart diseases
• Maintain healthy digestive system
• Prevent chances of infections by boosting immunity

How much carrot to consume?
We should consume at least 104 g of carrots per week.

Various ways of consuming carrots –

Carrot is a versatile vegetable. Though raw, fresh carrot provides maximum nourishment, they can be eaten steamed, boiled, roasted, and as an ingredient in many soups and stews. They can be added to various foods in the following ways-

• The time tested and relished by all in the form of gajar ka halwa, gajar ki kheer for a sweet version
  Use them in pulao, biryani
• Add to the all the time favourite aloo gobhi or making wraps, kathi rolls, chillas etc.
• Grill or sautee them with herbs
• Add shredded carrots to baked goods, such as cakes and muffins
• Snack on carrot sticks or baby carrots with herbed dips and hummus
• Use carrots in juice for a sweet, mild flavour
• Carrots taste good when baked with other healthy vegetable like broccolis , zucchinis, potatoes, bell peppers etc.

Risk associated with consuming carrots

• Any food in the world whether healthy or unhealthy can turn deleterious if eaten in more than sufficient quantity.
• If more carrots are eaten than required Vitamin A becomes toxic and can cause a slight orange tinge in the skin
• Juicing carrots can concentrate the sugar in the vegetable because this process removes the protective fibre.