5 Amazing Health Benefits of Purple Carrots

Purple carrots are rich in antioxidants, support vision, skin, and brain health, and aid in weight management.

Health Benefits of Purple Carrots.

(Photo: iStock)

Health Benefits of Purple Carrots: Purple carrots, a striking variety of the commonly known orange carrot, offer a unique set of health benefits due to their rich purple color. While most people picture orange when thinking of carrots, the original carrot colors were purple and white, according to experts.

Originating in the Iranian Plateau and the Persian Empire in the 10th century AD, purple carrots were among the first cultivated carrots. The modern orange carrot is believed to be a result of a genetic mutation from a yellow carrot breed. Today, Eastern-type carrots, which include red and purple varieties, have been largely replaced by the Western-type orange carrots commonly found in grocery stores.

Purple carrots contain high levels of anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant pigment responsible for their distinctive color. With up to 1,750 milligrams of anthocyanins per kilogram, purple carrots are sometimes used as natural food coloring in beverages, candies, and ice cream. Purple carrots are especially rich in powerful antioxidants known to fight inflammation and benefit certain health conditions.

Beyond their visual appeal, anthocyanins offer a range of health benefits, including supporting vision, skin health, and brain function. Additionally, purple carrots contain many of the same carotenoids found in orange carrots, including beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A.

5 Health Benefits of Purple Carrots

Following are some of the impressive health benefits of purple carrots.

1. Delay Aging: Purple carrots contain carotenoids, which may help protect against aging by assisting in the production of certain protective enzymes. These enzymes safeguard against damage to cells and harmful substances in the body caused by reactive oxygen species.

2. Promote Eye Health: Purple carrots contain carotenoids, including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which have eye-protective qualities. Beta-carotene may reduce the risks of cataracts, while lutein and zeaxanthin may also decrease the risk of cataracts and other age-related eye diseases.

3. Support Skin Health: Purple carrots contain carotenoids, including beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which can help protect against UV light damage, sunburn, and the effects of skin aging.

4. Boost Brain Health: Purple carrots contain anthocyanins, which may defend against neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Anthocyanins protect against oxidative stress and inflammation caused by neurotoxins like heavy metals, pesticides, and environmental pollutants.

5. Aid in Weight Management: Purple carrots are low in calories and nutrient-dense, making them a valuable addition to a weight management plan. Dietary fiber, found in abundance in purple carrots, aids in digestion, blood sugar control, and satiety, all contributing to appetite and weight management.

(Disclaimer: Parts of this article were generated by AI and published after the content was editorially modified and verified by a human based on their own judgement and expertise. The Quint does not publish AI-generated content without direct human involvement and oversight).