Purple Carrots ... so nutritious, tasty and versatile

Jillian Kubala, MS, RD writes:

"Carrots are tasty vegetables that come in a variety of colours. Purple carrots are especially eye-catching and provide unique health benefits specific to purple fruits and vegetables. All types of carrots are highly nutritious, but purple carrots are especially rich in powerful antioxidants known to fight inflammation and benefit certain health conditions.

This article reviews the benefits of purple carrots and gives you tips on how to add these vibrant vegetables to your diet.

History 

Though most people envision an orange vegetable when picturing a carrot, carrots were originally purple or white. In fact, the first evidence of carrots being used as a food crop was in the Iranian Plateau and the Persian Empire in the 10th century AD — these ancient carrots were purple and white. The modern, orange carrot likely originated from a new breed of yellow carrots, which were developed as a result of a genetic mutation. Red and purple carrots are considered Eastern varieties, while yellow, orange, or white carrots are known as Western-type carrots. The Eastern-type carrots have been largely replaced by the orange Western types that are common in today’s grocery stores. 

Nutrition 

All carrots — independent of their colour — are packed with a variety of nutrients, such as fibre, potassium, vitamin C, manganese, vitamin A, and certain B vitamins. In addition, like other purple fruits and vegetables, they contain potent antioxidants called anthocyanins, which benefit your health.

Contain Powerful Antioxidants

Purple carrots are particularly rich in anthocyanins, which are antioxidants shown to protect against heart disease, mental decline, and diabetes.

May Have Anticancer Effects

Eating purple carrots may reduce your risk of certain types of cancer including colon and breast cancer.

May Promote Weight Loss 

Purple carrots are highly nutritious and low in calories. Population studies demonstrate that people who eat vegetable-rich diets tend to weigh less than people who eat fewer vegetables. This is because vegetables like carrots are low in calories yet highly nutritious, making them a weight-loss-friendly food. Replacing high-calorie, processed snacks and meals with vegetable-based meals and snacks can help reduce your overall calorie intake and lead to healthy weight loss. 

May Benefit Certain Medical Conditions

Research indicates that purple carrots may benefit certain medical conditions, including metabolic syndrome, Colitis and inflammatory intestinal conditions. 

Easy to Add to Your Diet 

Purple carrots are not only nutritious but also versatile and tasty vegetables that can be used in a variety of dishes. They’re similar in taste to other carrot varieties and can be used in the same ways.

Here are some ways to add purple carrots to your diet:
Chop, grate, or shave and add to salads.
Roast — whole or sliced — with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Cook and add to homemade hummus.
Grate and add to baked goods.
Slice and serve with a tasty dip.
Add to juices and smoothies.
Dehydrate slices and enjoy as a healthy alternative to potato chips.
Dice and add to stir-fries and other dishes.
Spiralize and toss with pesto.
Grate and toss with olive oil and fresh herbs to make a slaw.
Add to soups, stews, and broths.

Steam and coat with a flavourful spice mix like harissa. 

The Bottom Line 

Purple carrots contain an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and powerful plant compounds that may benefit your health in many ways. Though all types of carrots are nutritious and healthy, purple carrots contain powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins that have impressive effects on your health. Eating purple carrots may improve heart health, encourage weight loss, and reduce inflammation and your risk of certain cancers. These brightly coloured veggies not only pack powerful health benefits but can also add colour and flavour to many of your favourite dishes."

The above is only a snippet of Jillian's article, read it in full with all related links here

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipes ideas within this blog, but please note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

All the best Jan