oxidant that carrots contain in abundance. A recent National Cancer Institute study found that lung cancer occurred more often in men with low intakes of alpha-carotene.
F.Y.I.
The average carrot contains 2.3 grams of fiber, much of it in the form of calcium pectatea fiber that's particularly effective in reducing cholesterol. According to USDA researchers, two carrots a day may reduce total cholesterol levels by as much as 20 percent.
Thanks to their high antioxidant content, raw carrots can kill listeria and other food-poisoning organisms.
Visionaries
Carrots earned their reputation as eyesight preservers thanks to their high vitamin A content. When beta-carotene converts to vitamin A in the body, it forms an eye pigment called rhodopsin that enables you to see in dim light. And beta-carotene's antioxidant effects also provide protection against cataracts and macular degeneration, the top cause of vision loss in older adults.
Tips:
Opt for whole carrots instead of carrot juice; that way you'll get the full fiber benefits.
If you buy carrots with the greenery intact, remove it before storing, or the green tops will suck out all the vitamins and moisture.
Peel all but organic carrots; carrots are especially likely to be treated with pesticides and other chemicals.
Beta-carotene is not destroyed by cooking; in fact, cooking releases more of the beneficial nutrient from fiber.