Hidden superfood: Uncovering the health benefits of black carrots
You won't find black carrots at the market, but you might encounter them in health food shops. They are also available in powdered form. What should you know about them?
Black carrots, also known as purple carrots, are largely unknown in our region. However, they are not a new vegetable and originate from Asia, where they have been cultivated since ancient times. They arrived in Europe as early as the 13th century and were cultivated for several centuries. They were later replaced by the orange variety developed in the Netherlands. Orange carrots quickly became much more popular and remain so to this day.
What distinguishes black carrots
Black carrots stand out not only for their intense colour but also for their abundance of nutritional value. Their composition is remarkably rich. They contain valuable antioxidants and vitamins A, C, E, K, and B-complex. They also contain a lot of minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and selenium. All these components contribute to strengthening the immune, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. They may also help lower levels of bad cholesterol and blood pressure.
Helpful for weight loss
This vegetable can also be an aid during weight loss. Not only does it contain a lot of fibre, which speeds up digestion and supports metabolism, but it is also low in calories and has properties that regulate glucose levels. It’s ideal for salads, but it can also be baked or fried.
Not only orange and black
The orange carrot is the most well-known, but there are several types of this vegetable. Besides black, there are also red varieties. They are characterised by containing lycopene, an antioxidant known primarily from tomatoes. Lycopene has anti-inflammatory effects and also strengthens the immune system. However, black carrots have more nutrients than red and orange carrots. That is why they are often categorised as superfoods.
