Carrots have always been said to be good for the eyes, and it turns out that really is one of the benefits of the nutritional value of carrots. Good for the eyes, the heart, and as a preventative against the development of conditions such as diabetes, carrots contain nutrients with a wide range of benefits. The crunchy orange vegetables contain beta-carotene, which gives them their bright color in addition to providing a number of health benefits.
Vitamin A is a nutrient vital to healthy eyes and continued good vision. Carrots are high in vitamin A, which aids in the creation of healthy retinol cells. These cells are key not only in the preservation of eyesight as an individual ages, but they also help an individual develop and keep accurate night vision; in fact, a vitamin A deficiency is often characterized by an inability to see in low light.
The human body changes beta-carotene into vitamin A, and there is no other vegetable that has a higher beta-carotene content than carrots. The high levels of vitamin A and beta-carotene make the nutritional value of carrots rank high on a scale of antioxidants. These nutrients repair everyday wear and tear on the body's tissues and cells.
Part of the nutritional value of carrots is that they also act as a preventative. Beta-carotene and vitamin A have also been shown to reduce the risk of some types of cancers. A reduced risk for lung and breast cancer has been linked to a diet that includes raw carrots. Carrots and other root vegetables have been found to help lower the amount of bad cholesterol in the body, which in turn helps lower an individual's risk of developing heart disease or suffering a heart attack.
Individuals who have a family history of strokes can also take advantage of the nutritional value of carrots. High levels of beta-carotene in the body can make recovery from a stroke easier and decrease the chance that a stroke will be fatal. In some cases, beta-carotene has been found to reduce the chance of even suffering a stroke.
The nutritional value of carrots can include benefits for individuals who are diabetic as well. Carrots have been found to help regulate blood sugar, as they contain a nutrient called carotenoids,which interact with the insulin that the body produces. They have also been shown to help regulate gastrointestinal health as well as improve the health and functionality of the liver.