Carrots: antioxidant and sports superfood
The carrot is a food that is not really given the importance it should. It’s usually used as a garnish or as an ingredient in salads. Actually, your options for using this vegetable are much more extensive. Regarding its properties, it’s mainly a food rich in antioxidant and protective nutrients. Keep reading to discover all of the properties and ways to consume this superfood.
Powerful antioxidant and protector
Of all the properties of the carrot, its antioxidant and protective power stands out. The carrot contains, among its components, beta-carotene that our bodies absorb as vitamin A. Antioxidant foods are important for the body for the following reasons:
- Prevents diseases and strengthens defenses, strengthening the immune system.
- Combats free radicals, which are the main culprits of aging
- They protect against heart diseases, such as arrhythmias or heart attacks.
- Helps to prevent some types of cancer.
In addition to the carrot, other foods that are rich in antioxidants are peppers, mangoes, veal liver, kiwis or nuts.
Superfood for athletes
It’s clear that the carrot is a vegetable that everyone should consume. In addition, it is especially recommended for those who perform sports regularly. This is because their properties are perfectly placed to meet the needs of athletes both before and after exercise.
Carrots are rich in potassium, so they contribute to the recovery of the athlete after exercising. Consuming carrots after working out causes recovery to be faster and fatigue to disappear.
End mental fatigue
In addition, although in smaller quantities, the carrot also contains phosphorus. It’s essential to end mental fatigue. If your mind is tired or you need to be 100 percent for a competition, remember to eat a carrot to help you achieve this.
Another reason why the carrot is beneficial for athletes is its fiber content. This nutrient, in addition to improving the digestive process, contributes to the purification of toxins.
How do I include carrots in my daily diet?
After learning about all the properties of the carrot, you may wonder how you can include it in your day to day life? It’s very simple since it’s a versatile food that is easily used in any meal, dinner, snack or dessert.
Start consuming this superfood
- Carrot sticks with hummus. A healthy and protein-rich snack that can be eaten at any time of the day and prepared within a couple of minutes.
- Salad with shredded carrot. One of the easiest ways to eat carrots every day is to shred a little on top of your salad. It doesn’t matter if the salad has tomato, lettuce or spinach. Carrots are always a perfect companion.
- Carrot cake. Who said that carrots are only for savory recipes? This cake is a clear example that the carrot is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. Here is the recipe to make a delicious cake that will conquer the most exquisite palates.
- Carrot smoothie. Perfect to have between meals and to cool off during the hot months. Also, you can combine it with fruits such as oranges. Try different combinations and discover new flavors.
- Carrot chips. With the help of a mandolin cut the carrots into slices and place them in the oven for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. This is how easy it is to make a side dish for any meat or fish recipe or as a snack to have between meals.
In addition to these suggestions, there are many others. Some of them are creamed carrots or croquettes made from this food. As you can see, including this food is very simple and beneficial thanks to all its properties. Don’t wait any longer to start eating carrots!
