Thursday 25 October 2012

10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD EAT MORE CARROTS

Carrots are more than a tasty addition to almost any dish. They are
also good for your body's overall health, especially that of the skin,
eyes, digestive system and teeth!

So if the sweet flavor isn't enough, enjoy these 10 reasons to eat more carrots:

1. Beta carotene: Carrots are a rich source of this powerful
antioxidant, which, among other vital uses, can be converted into
vitamin A in the body to help maintain healthy skin.

2. Digestion: Carrots increase saliva and supply essential minerals,
vitamins and enzymes that aid in digestion. Eating carrots regularly
may help prevent gastric ulcers and other digestive disorders.

3. Alkaline elements: Carrots are rich in alkaline elements, which
purify and revitalize the blood while balancing the acid/alkaline
ratio of the body.

4. Potassium: Carrots are a good source of potassium, which can help
maintain healthy sodium levels in the body, thereby helping to reduce
elevated blood pressure levels.

5. Dental Health: Carrots kill harmful germs in the mouth and help
prevent tooth decay.

6. Wounds: Raw or grated carrots can be used to help heal wounds, cuts
and inflammation.

7. Phytonutrients: Among the many beneficial phytochemicals that
carrots contain is a phytonutrient called falcarinol, which may reduce
the risk of colon cancer and help promote overall colon health.

8. Carotenoids: Carrots are rich in carotenoids, which our bodies can
use to help regulate blood sugar.

9.  Fiber: Carrots are high in soluble fiber, which may reduce
cholesterol by binding the LDL (low density lipoprotein) form (the
kind we don't want) and increasing the HDL (high density lipoprotein)
form (the kind our body needs) to help reduce blood clots and prevent
heart disease.

10. Eyes, hair, nails and more! The nutrients in carrots can improve
the health of your eyes, skin, hair, nails and more through helping to
detoxify your system and build new cells!

There are plenty more reasons to enjoy these crunchy, sweet root
vegetables, so if you've not had a carrot in a long time, dash to your
nearest neighbourhood market to pick up a bunch or two – you could
give some out as well.