Carrots may not be the coolest vegetable on the shelf, but when it comes to health benefits, this humble ingredient packs a punch. A recent study found that eating just a handful of baby carrots three times a week can significantly increase carotenoid levels in the skin. These are plant pigments that are associated with a whole range of health-boosting benefits. This is just one of many research papers that support the benefits of eating large amounts of carrots. So why are these vegetables so good for your health?
5 Health Benefits of Carrots
Rich Source of Carotenoids
Carrots are rich in carotenoids. Carotenoids are natural chemicals that accumulate in the roots of vegetables and are responsible for the color of the vegetable. Studies have linked high levels of carotenoids to a lower risk of certain chronic diseases and improved immune system.
May Have a Positive Impact on Heart Health
Yellow, red, and orange vegetables such as carrots have long been praised for their anti-heart disease benefits. For example, this 2023 study found that people with higher levels of carotenoids in their blood were more likely to have less atherosclerosis in their arteries, thus reducing their risk of heart disease.
Good for Eyesight
You may have heard the saying that chomping on a carrot will improve your eyesight, but that’s not an old wives’ tale. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, a nutrient important for eye health.
Packed with Fibre
Carrots have the highest fibre content of all vegetables, making them excellent for digestion. Many studies have confirmed that this vegetable has prebiotic properties, and as outlined on the NHS website, eating plenty of fibre is linked to a lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Eating fibre-rich foods also helps to control blood sugar levels, which is why studies have shown that a diet high in fibre may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. It also helps you maintain energy for longer, playing an important role in healthy weight management.
Beneficial for Skin
You may have seen wellness influencers swearing by carrots for glowing skin, but their claims are not without basis. Vitamin A is a key nutrient for maintaining healthy skin, which is why it’s one of the hottest ingredients in skin care right now. Carrots are also a good source of Vitamin C, which is known for its skin-revitalizing properties as it aids in the body’s production of collagen, a protein that supports skin structure and cell turnover. There’s also evidence that eating carrots may be beneficial for people with sensitive skin who burn easily.
