Carrot is a popular root vegetable eaten and loved by many in Nigeria; it is very nutritious and rich in a powerful antioxidant called carotenoid which is responsible for its color. Beta-carotene is one of the carotenoids contained in carrots; it is the precursor for vitamin A in the body which is responsible for a healthy vision and good eyesight.

This beta-carotene has other functions besides protecting the eyes; it protects the skin, it boosts the immune system, it fights oxidation and free radicals and reduces the risks of chronic diseases like stroke, heart disease, and cancer.

They are mostly eaten raw but they can cooked and juiced; they are used in making stew, especially in this era of tomato scarcity in Nigeria, many people are now using carrots as an alternative to tomatoes which are now very expensive. This is called carrot stew.

Health Benefits of Carrots

Many cultures around the world have different ways of consuming and using carrots; there is carrot oil which is used mostly on the skin because of the immense benefits it has on the skin.

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Carrots have a plethora of medicinal and health benefits and we will be taking a look at some of them in this post.

1. Improve Vision

Carrots top the list of medicinal and nutritional remedies for good eyesight and prevention of eye problems; it is rich in vitamin A, its rich content of beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body.

A deficiency of this vital vitamin is linked to loss of vision, night blindness, and other vision problems. When taken regularly; it can prevent eye diseases causes by old age. They protect the eyes and keep them safe from damages, the carotenoids responsible for this are zeaxanthin and lutein.

2. Hasten Wound Healing

Beta-carotene present in carrot heals the skin of any injury and infection. Boosts the elasticity of the skin, it improves complexion and fades spots and skin scars.

Carrots slows the process of aging and fights premature or rapid aging. Clears the signs of aging on the skin on the skin and gives one a youthful appearance. It stops damages to the skin by free radicals and it aids regular metabolism.

It prevents skin dryness and protects the skin from dangerous rays. Treats acne, blemishes and uneven tone. It gives the skin a natural and healthy glow.

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3. Prevent Periodontal Diseases

The rich carotenoids found in carrots boost the immune system and fight dangerous microbes that cause lots of harm in the body. Protect the mouth from toxins and bacteria that cause oral problems like bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.

They also contain minerals that prevent cavities and tooth decay due to their antibacterial properties. Carrot can prevent the formation and buildup of plaque, they clear plaque on the teeth and remove stains from the teeth.

The fiber in carrots serves as a brush which expels harmful microbes in the mouth, gut and digestive system at large.

4. Prevent Menstrual Problems

Carrot juice is given to women with menstrual pains and other menstruation problems to help them overcome; this is due to the presence of phytoestrogen in carrots, this estrogen-like compound boosts a healthy menstruation and prevents cramps and pains.

They control the flow of menstruation thereby treating heavy bleeding or scanty menstruation; it helps women in menopause overcome the symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, sweating and other symptoms.

5. Rich Sources of Antioxidants

Carrots are rich in many powerful carotenoids; these compounds play powerful therapeutic roles in the body, they reduce the risk of chronic diseases, they boost immune functions and fight inflammation.

Powerful antioxidants present in carrots are beta carotene, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), lycopene, zeaxanthin and lutein. They are one of the vegetables with the highest amounts of beta carotene; this protects the DNA from damage and cell mutation.

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6. Reduce the Risk of Chronic Diseases

The rich nutrient content of this vegetable reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart disease, cancer, and other forms of chronic diseases.

It reduces the levels of cholesterol which is a risk factor for most chronic diseases; it boosts the production of bile and aids better and proper absorption of nutrients, this, in turn, will increase the levels of good cholesterol to protect the heart and reduce the levels of bad cholesterol.

7. Protects the Brain

Carrots’ antioxidants protect the brain from oxidative damage by free radicals and toxins; it keeps dementia, Alzheimer’s and other brain problems at bay.

It improves memory and cognitive functions. Fights the cognitive decline in aged individuals, it prevents oxidative stress in the brain which can lead to a weak function of the nerves involved in signaling.

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8. They Fight Cancer

Regular consumption of carrots prevents cancer; it even treats cancer in those that have it and slows down the growth and development and spread of cancer cells.

Taking lots of carrots will increase the levels of carotenoids and this will fight the formation of cancerous cells and tumors in the body. The antioxidants in carrots have a strong effect against leukemia, breast cancer and cancer of the ovaries. It also fights other types of cancer.

Carrots also fortifies the immune system and empowers it to fight off cancer; it also fights oxidation and inflammation which are causes of cancer. Take lots of carrots daily.

9. Boost Hair Growth

Carrots are wonderful remedy for hair loss and a sparse growth of hair; their rich nutrient content stimulate hair growth, it makes the hair stronger thereby preventing hair breakage, it even fights dull appearance and gives the hair a natural shine.

It makes the hair thicker by increasing hair volume; it stimulates hair growth. Carrots are rich in vitamin C and E which improves hair growth and increase the circulation of blood to the scalp. This promotes hair growth and also prevents premature graying.

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10.  Healthy Pregnancy

Carrots are very good for pregnant women; they help the fetus develop properly, they reduce the risks of miscarriage, premature birth, and fetal infections.

It also improves the production and quality of breast milk.