The Anti-Cancer And Other Properties Of Carrots

Carrots are absolutely deliciously foods enjoyed all over the world, whether in salads or even carrot cake. Not only are these root vegetables deliciously, but they also boast a surprising amount of health benefits. You might already know that carrots contain the highest sources of Vitamin A — an essential vitamin for healthier eyes. Did you know that in ancient times carrots were considered to cure illnesses like ulcers, stomach issues, liver illnesses, and even heal your wounds?

The carrot is a root vegetable that is usually the color orange, however they do grow in different colors such as yellow, purple, white, and even red. The part of the carrot we eat is a taproot but before it was discovered as an edible food item, people grew carrots for the green, lush green leaves that were used as air fragrances.  The carrot has evolved from the wild carrot which is a native vegetable from Europe and Asia; cultivators found that the wild carrot had a more woody type texture and was not as tasteful as the domesticated carrot we have today.

There are two types of carrots; Eastern and Western carrots.  Eastern carrots that are generally found in Asia and date back to the 10th century and are generally yellow or purple in color. Western carrots, however, are the typical carrots we often see in supermarkets in the United States, which are generally orange in color and surfaced in the 17th century in the Netherlands. Both offer different nutritional benefits, and it's good to know the difference between them.

Ready to learn more about the carrot and its "magical" properties?

Where are Carrots Grown?

Carrots are best grown in temperatures at 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.   Young plants do not fare well on hot days when the sun is bright; the plants may die or become injured by the hot temperatures that begin to develop on the surface of the soil or just below it.  Hot weather will also hinder or damage the growth of the plant as it matures.  If carrots are grown in temperatures lower than 50 degrees Fahrenheit this may cause a longer or slender root and the root will be a paler than normal.  California produces the greatest portion of carrots that are supplied in the United States.  Other states that are high producers are Florida, Texas, and Michigan. 
 

How to Grow Carrots

The best types of soils for cultivating carrots are sandy loams or a muck type soil.  Many cultivators use silt loams as they tend to be easier to irrigate and control the moisture in the soil.  Silt and clay loams generally are they types of soil that produce the highest amount of carrots.  Carrots do not grow well in soils that are stony, shallow, cloddy, or trashy.  Some cultivators have begun using raised bed for growing carrots as this lets the soil drain much better and will get warm quicker in the spring. 
 

Nutrients and Health Benefits of Carrots

Nutrients Found in one Cooked Carrot

Carrots contain the highest sources of Vitamin A which is an essential vitamin for healthier eyes; it also helps individuals with night vision problems.  Carrots were considered, in ancient times, to be remedies to cure such illnesses as ulcers, stomach issues, liver illnesses, and for the healing of wounds.

Carrots contain Beta carotene which is an essential anti-oxidant and is used in the body to fight off free radicals that may cause heart disease, macular degeneration, and cancer.  Studies have shown the males whom have greater levels of both beta carotene and Vitamin C has a lower risk of heart related problems.

Carrots also contain a high source of Vitamin C which promotes the healing of wounds, helps to prevent damage to cells, helps to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and is essential for a strong immune system.  Vitamin C is also linked to fighting off diseases by destroying free radicals, which are the molecules in the body that cause cell damage and increase the aging process.
 

Healthy ways to Prepare Carrots

Many vegetables lose some of their nutritional value when they are cooked however carrots are different; cooking actually increases the nutrients in carrots.  Because the fiber that makes up the carrots holds onto the beta carotene; cooking helps to release it. 

Steaming or boiling carrots is generally the best method of preparing them.  It is important to not over-cook them; leaving carrots slightly crisp but still soft is the healthiest way to cook them; this allows the beta-carotene to be released from the fiber of the carrot.
 

Health Benefits of Carrot

Carrots are an essential part of a healthy diet that helps promote better eye sight, builds a stronger immune system, and can help protect you from cancer causing cells.  Whether they are cooked or eat raw carrots provide essential vitamins our bodies need to stay healthy.