The Hidden Health Benefits of Carrots

Recent research has shown that consuming a portion of baby carrots three times weekly can markedly raise skin carotenoid levels. Elevated skin carotenoids are linked to enhanced antioxidant defenses and a reduced likelihood of chronic conditions such as heart disease and various cancers. This indicator also suggests better skin health and enhanced immune system function.

Carotenoids are pigments that enhance many fruits and vegetables with their vibrant orange, red and yellow hues. As diet is the main source of these compounds, skin measurements can be taken to assess the intake of fruits and vegetables. When paired with a multivitamin that includes beta-carotene, another carotenoid, the levels of these beneficial phytonutrients in the body increased even further.

In the study, a serving of baby carrots (defined as 8-12 carrots) chopped into smaller pieces to equal 100 grams or half a cup were used. This unpublished research involved 60 young adults divided into four groups. One group ate the specified serving of carrots three times a week, another took a multivitamin supplement without eating any carrots, a third group consumed both the carrots and the multivitamin, and a fourth group, serving as the control, did not consume either the carrots or the supplement.

The study revealed that skin carotenoid levels increased by 10.8% in the group consuming baby carrots alone, and by 21.6% in the group that combined baby carrots with a multivitamin supplement containing beta carotene, compared to their levels before the study started. There were no changes in skin carotenoid levels in the control group or the group that took only the supplement.

Many might assume that simply taking a multivitamin supplement would suffice, but it alone did not enhance carotenoid accumulation. Instead, it was the combination that appeared effective. The research demonstrated that pairing baby carrots with a multivitamin supplement containing beta carotene can boost skin carotenoid levels.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Trying to eat more vegetables? Snacking on carrots might help