Nutrition and Health Benefits of Carrot Juice

The benefits of carrot juice are numerous. If there is one beverage that is highly packed with nutrients and health benefits, carrot juice is it. Carrot juice has shown to strengthen the eyes, protect the heart and lower the occurrence of chronic diseases.

Nutrients in Carrot Juice

A glass of plain carrot juice contains the following nutrients:

• Vitamins A, B6, C and K
• Thiamin
• Dietary Fiber
• Potassium

Health Benefits of Carrot Juice

Carrots are known for being good for your eyes. This is because they are an excellent source of vitamin A. Vitamin A deficiencies can lead to poor vision. You can actually restore your vision by drinking carrot juice. The beta-carotene in carrots travels to the liver where it is converted to vitamin A. It then moves to the retina where it becomes a pigment that is necessary for seeing at night. Carrots also have antioxidant ability that protects your eyes from degeneration and developing cataracts.

Among foods that contain carotenoids, carrots are the strongest source. Studies show that people who eat foods rich in carotenoids generally suffer less from chronic diseases and have lower mortality rates. Many studies that have looked at the connection between eating a diet high in carotenoids and the occurrence of heart disease have found a lower risk for heart disease. Eating just one serving of carrots daily reduces your chances of heart attacks by 60 percent.

When it comes to treating cancer, carrots and carrot juice have been closely examined. A study by the National Cancer Institute found the incidence for lung cancer to be higher in men who did not consume enough carotene. A doctor who was known for his holistic approach to cancer treatment used large doses of carrot juice to help individuals who had advanced cancer. These patients had no other options for treatment and, in many cases, regained their health and lived longer than expected.

Carrot juice has also proven helpful for individuals fighting sugar addiction. The sweet taste of carrot juice satisfies sugar cravings. Carrots and other foods containing carotenoids have been found to be helpful in regulating blood sugar.

Preparing Carrot Juice

Make fresh carrot juice a regular part of your diet. It is better to buy organic carrots, if possible, to avoid pesticides. Cut the green tops off of carrots before storing them in the refrigerator. This will keep the carrots fresh longer.

To make a glass of plain carrot juice, you will probably use four or more large carrots. If you do drink it plain, sip it slowly through a straw. Carrot juice provides potent nutrition, and slowly sipping it allows your body to better assimilate it. Also consider mixing in other fruits and vegetables to spice things up. Carrot and apple juice is a popular combination. You can add a small piece of pineapple for a tangy taste. Some people also mix in beets or celery. Carrot juice can also make for a delicious breakfast shake. Just mix in a banana and your favorite milk or milk substitute.