Carrot - Nutrition Facts, Health Benefits & Recipes
Nutritional Information (100g)
Carrots are a crunchy vegetable that is rich in essential nutrients and offers numerous health benefits.
- Calories: 41 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9.6 g
- Fiber: 2.8 g
- Sugar: 4.7 g
- Protein: 0.9 g
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Vitamin A: 184% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 7% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Potassium: 320 mg
Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are excellent for vision health and contribute to overall wellness.
Health Benefits of Carrots
- Promotes Eye Health: High in beta-carotene, carrots are essential for maintaining good vision and eye health.
- Boosts Immune System: Carrots provide vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps protect against infections.
- Supports Digestive Health: The fiber in carrots aids in digestion and promotes a healthy digestive system.
- Improves Skin Health: The antioxidants and vitamins in carrots help improve skin health and prevent signs of aging.
- Supports Heart Health: Carrots are a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- High Beta-Carotene Intake: Excessive consumption of carrots can lead to a condition called carotenemia, which causes the skin to turn yellow-orange.
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to carrots, including itching or swelling in the mouth and throat.
Delicious Carrot Recipes
1. Carrot Soup
A warming and nutritious soup that's perfect for any season.
Ingredients:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add carrots and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer until carrots are tender. Blend until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
2. Carrot and Hummus Wrap
A healthy and easy-to-make wrap that's perfect for lunch or a snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 2 tbsp hummus
- 1 whole wheat tortilla
- Fresh spinach or lettuce
Instructions:
Spread hummus on the tortilla. Add julienned carrots and fresh spinach. Roll up the tortilla and slice into pinwheels or enjoy as a whole wrap.