Health benefits of carrots: Superfoods for your heart, brain, gut and eyesight

Health benefits of carrots: Purple carrots have anthocyanins (good for your heart and brain), red ones have lycopene (linked to lower stroke risk), and yellow carrots have lutein, which helps with memory and vision (Image: Pexels)

Most of us grew up being told, “Eat your carrots; they’re good for your eyes.” Turns out, the advice was actually true. Multiple study results vouch for the health benefits of carrots: These superfoods, rich in vitamin A, are essential for night vision, immunity, and even your heart and lungs.

Studies say that adding carrots to your daily diet, especially with a little fat, can help boost your health. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), getting vitamin A from foods like carrots is safer because the body adjusts how much it converts based on its needs. Plus, they also come in a variety of colours.

As per AHA, one raw carrot (about 60 gm) has 25 calories and provides around 72 percent of an adult woman’s, and 56 percent of a man’s, daily vitamin A needs. Additionally, carrots are no longer just orange. With roots in Central Asia and flavours that go back centuries, today’s carrots are colourful, nutrient-rich, and more powerful for your health; from your vision to your heart, and more.

Also read | Diet tips for children: Improve vision, boost immunity, support growth with carrots

6 health benefits of carrots:

• They help you see in the dark: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for healthy eyesight, especially at night.

• The power of colours: Purple carrots have anthocyanins (good for your heart and brain), red ones have lycopene (linked to lower stroke risk), and yellow carrots have lutein, which helps with memory and vision.

• They’re great for your immune system: Vitamin A doesn’t just help your eyes. It also keeps your immune system strong and your lungs healthy — useful in a world full of germs and pollution.

• They’re easy on your waistline: One medium carrot has just 25 calories and gives over half your daily vitamin A needs. They’re filling, sweet, and low in calories — a smart snack for weight-watchers.

• Cooked or raw: Carrots are healthy whether you eat them raw, cooked, or even juiced. Cooking them slightly can make their nutrients easier to absorb — just don’t overdo it.

• Eat them with a little fat: Your body absorbs more nutrients from carrots when there’s some fat around. Pair it with salad dressing, a little cheese, or add them in a stew.