The hidden power of black carrots: A superfood rediscovered
You might not find black carrots at the regular market, but you could come across them in health food stores. 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're 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 grown for several centuries. They were later replaced by the orange variety developed in the Netherlands. Orange carrots quickly gained popularity and continue to be favoured today.
what distinguishes black carrots
Black carrots stand out not only for their intense colour but also for their wealth of nutrition. Their composition is rich, containing valuable antioxidants and vitamins A, C, E, K, and the B-complex. They also contain minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and selenium. These components help strengthen the immune, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. They may also assist in lowering levels of bad cholesterol and blood pressure.
Helpful for weight loss
This vegetable can be helpful during weight loss. It contains a lot of fibre, which speeds up digestion and supports metabolism. It is also low in calories and has properties that regulate glucose levels. It's perfect for salads, but 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's also red. It contains lycopene, an antioxidant primarily found in tomatoes, which has anti-inflammatory effects and strengthens the immune system. However, black carrots have more nutrients than red and orange carrots. That's why they are often categorized as superfoods.
