Sickle Cell and Nutrition: Carrots

Carrot is a root vegetable, usually orange in colour which contains vitamin A and anti oxidants. They are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. Here are some ways in which carrots might be helpful.
Improves vision
     There is truth in the old wisdom that carrots are good for our eyes. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converted to vitamin A in the liver.
Helps Prevent Cancer

     Studies have shown that carrots reduce the risk of lung cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer.
Helps Prevent Infections
     Carrots are known by herbal doctors to prevent infections. They can be used on cuts using shredded raw or boiled and mashed.
Prevents Heart Disease
     Studies she that diets that are high in carotenoids are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Carrots have not only beta carotene but also alpha carotene and lutein. The regular consumption of carrots also reduces cholesterol levels because the soluble fibers in carrots bind with bile acids.
Cleanses The Body
     Vitamin A assists the liver in flushing out the toxins from the body. It reduces the bile and fat in the liver. The fiber present in carrots helps clean out the colon and hasten waste movement.
Prevents Teeth and Gum
     It's all in the crunch! Carrots clean your teeth and mouth. They scrape off plaque and food particles just like toothpaste and toothbrush. Carrots stimulate gum and trigger a lot of saliva, which being like alkaline,balances out the acid-forming, cavity-forming bacteria. The minerals in Carrots prevents tooth damage.
Source:www.care2.com
     In order not to get tired of eating carrots, here are some ways to consume them:

• Garnish your food with shredded carrots
• Make your into smoothie or juice
• Eat them raw
• Cook them with food
• Add to them to your cake recipes etc.