Purple Carrots: Nutritious And Good For Weight Loss
When we think of carrots, we immediately think of the beautiful orange color and not purple. However, purple carrots were the most common type of carrots in the past and were eaten much more often than any other variety in Asia and Europe.
In the past, roots came in many different colors. They were white, yellow, purple and almost black, depending on the region and type of sand in which they were grown.
Where does the orange carrot come from? The orange carrot variety first appeared in the Netherlands during the 17th century. In fact, they are just crosses of other species, invented by Dutch farmers who wanted to give the carrot an orange color in honor of the royal family.
However, they were so popular and successful that they were soon sold internationally and a market was created for orange carrots. It’s an interesting story that explains why we find so few purple carrots in our stores.
In recent years, the purple carrot has been on the rise and it is even placed in the ‘superfoods’ category. Let’s take a closer look at the reasons for this:
The nutrition of purple carrots
Let’s start with what the purple color has as an advantage. The purple color is caused by the water-soluble compound anthocyanin.
Anthocyanin is an antioxidant found in many foods, including:
- red grapes
- eggplant
- blueberries
- kidney beans
- Red cabbage
- pomegranates
The purple carrot falls into the same category and also has the same benefits:
- They can improve heart health.
- They lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
- The power of the anthocyanin in purple carrots is also highly recommended for people with diabetes. Regular consumption of this vegetable can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- The antioxidants can protect blood vessels and neutralize the enzymes that damage collagen and connective tissue.
weight loss
Purple carrots are very low in calories. You can eat them raw or steamed. They are very nourishing and contain a lot of fiber.
They also have a positive effect on digestion. Not only can they help lower blood sugar, but the high fiber content allows you to absorb nutrients much better.
Most of their fiber is soluble. Soluble fiber absorbs water in the digestive tract and forms a gel-like substance.
As they travel through the gut, they absorb toxins little by little and then lower cholesterol once it enters the bloodstream.
They reduce varicose veins
If you suffer from varicose veins, purple carrots can help ease the pain and pressure. Again, it is the anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanin that do their job. In addition, it also promotes blood flow.
Purple carrots activate a range of proteins capable of healing damaged blood vessel walls, improving overall cardiovascular health.
Be aware that the varicose veins will not disappear. Only the symptoms and pain will be relieved.
They can help prevent colon cancer
Purple carrots, like blueberries, radishes and red grapes, contain minerals and antioxidants that can prevent the spread of cancer cells.
According to a study conducted by the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at the University of Maryland, the growth of cancer cells in the gut can be prevented by regularly eating purple carrots.
In addition, always try to opt for organic food, so that your body gets as many nutrients as possible.
Now let’s take a look at a recipe that uses purple carrots.
Fresh juice with purple carrot and apple
A fun way to enjoy the many benefits of purple carrots is to use them in a tasty smoothie. It is ideal to start the day or to drink with dinner.
How to prepare the smoothie:
Ingredients
- 2 purple carrots
- 1 apple
- the juice of half a lemon
- 250ml water
Preparation
- Rinse the purple carrots and apple well.
- Cut the apple into quarters for easier mixing.
- Blend the carrots and apple in a blender and pour the juice into a glass.
- Add the water and lemon juice.
- Stir everything together and enjoy the smoothie!
It’s a sweet and sour drink that awakens your taste buds and gives your body a solid boost. Try it out soon!
If you weren’t aware of the many benefits of purple carrots or haven’t used them yet, now is the time to add them to your diet.
