*Carrots are the root vegetables of the plant Daucus carota.

*Though the orange carrots are most popular, they also come in many other colors – yellow, white, deep orange, red, pink, and purple. These colors are due to the presence of the pigments carotenoids and anthocyanins.

*They have a smooth skin, crunchy texture and a mildly sweet to very sweet taste.

*Raw carrots are edible and are best when eaten raw, but they are also used in soups, stews, salads, etc.

*The size varies from short and wide to large and tapering to very large with round or tapering ends.

*Buying and storage: Select carrots that are fresh, healthy-looking, smooth-skinned, and plump without any wrinkles, bruises, or soft spots. Cut the ends off, and store them in the cupboard in a cool dry place away from heat and light. These can also be stored in the refrigerator to increase its shelf life.

Is it raw?

Yes, fresh carrots are always raw.

Health Benefits

1. Carrots are low in proteins and fats, but provides carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals.

2. They are very rich sources of beta-carotenes, which are the precursors of Vitamin A. Beta-carotenes are also powerful antioxidants.

3. These anti-oxidant beta-carotenes reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and various types of cancer.

4. Beta-carotenes also enhance the vision, especially night vision, and protect against macular degeneration and cataract formation in the elderly.

5. Carrots also contain another phytonutrient called falcarinol, which plays a very important role in reducing the risk of cancers.

6. Moderate source of Vitamin C, a natural water soluble antioxidant. It enhances the body's immune system, increases the elasticity of skin and blood vessels, and prevents bruising of the skin.

7. Moderate source of Vitamin K, which helps in depositing calcium in bones and also reduces the risk of osteoporosis in elderly women.

8. Good sources of Vitamin B6, which is very important in reducing the risk of diabetic heart disease, atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, heart attack, etc by reducing the homocysteine levels in the blood.

9. They are low in sodium and have good amounts of potassium, and so help to maintain blood pressure and reduce water retention. Good amounts of potassium is also important for active muscles and nerves.

10. Moderate source of manganese, which is an essential cofactor in many enzymatic reactions in the body, especially in the production of energy and antioxidants defences.