Meet the Memory Boosting Carrot Rainbow

Carrots are a popular root vegetable known for their crisp, refreshing taste and their diversity of culinary uses. The domestication of carrots began in Central Asia and expanded into Europe, where they were selectively bred into the popular vegetable we know today.

Carrots come in a rainbow of colors, including purple, black, red, yellow, white, and its signature orange hue. These colors are caused by compounds known as carotenoids, a powerful and highly beneficial antioxidant. Orange carrots are particularly high in α- and β-carotene, which prevent or slow down cell death. The saying that carrots improve your eyesight is true in some sense, as yellow carrots contain the carotenoid lutein, which is an important compound in prevention of macular degeneration in humans. β-carotene also converts into vitamin A, which is not only important for our eyesight, but also our overall health. Vitamin A is a determining factor for the development of childhood allergens, and an increase of vitamin A consumption can reduce this development and mediate symptoms of allergen attacks in adults.

Gut-friendly veggies
In terms of gut health, carrots are a fantastic source of fiber. Eating raw carrots reduces blood cholesterol and enhances bile secretion, which is important to facilitate the absorption of vitamins, minerals, and lipids important to digestive health. Carrots also stimulate healthy microflora found in the gut while simultaneously decreasing inflammation, which makes carrots a perfect prebiotic food.

Prevents cognitive decline
Carrots hold the power to improve brain health. Carrot seed ethanol extract has been shown to reduce brain aging in rats due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Another recent study discovered that the compound luteolin found in carrots reduces neuroinflammation and improves learning and memory in aged brains.

Carrots keep the brain sharp
Not only do carrots reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline, they also boost memory. Studies have shown that carrots can improve brain development and increase myelin sheath concentration, which allows for more efficient communication between neurons.

Whether raw, roasted, boiled, or blended, carrots are a versatile food with many surprising functions that can provide health benefits for many systems in the body. Next time you’re feeling hungry, be sure to grab a carrot for a delicious and nutritious snack!