We get it, sometimes eating enough vegetables can be difficult. But if you skip vegetablesyou are potentially missing out on tons of nutrients, vitamins, and health benefits.
For example, there are certain vegetables that contain healthy heart and nutrients to lower cholesterol. In fact, according to Lisa Young, PhD, RDNauthor of Finally full, finally slim and member of our board of medical experts, carrots are some of the best vegetables you can eat to help lower and control your cholesterol levels.
“Carrots are a good source of Soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels. They’re also high in beta-carotene, the vitamin A antioxidant that can protect you from chronic conditions like heart disease,” says Young, “and best of all, carrots are super versatile. You can munch them with hummus, add them to a salad, or toast them with olive oil and garlic and enjoy them as a side dish.”
Read on to learn how carrots can help your heart and for more heart-healthy tips, check out High Cholesterol Side Effects After 50.
Carrots are almost always first associated with their eye health-And for good reason. They are rich in vitamin A, which is known to help reduce the risk of certain eye diseases. They also contain lutein, which can help reduce the risk of macular degeneration. But while carrots are great for your eyes, their benefits don’t end there.
According Harvard Healthcarrots are a great snack to help your heart and lower cholesterol because they are easy to eat and are fiber loaded.
The connection between dietary fiber and cholesterol is significant. A review published in nutrients states that both insoluble and soluble fiber are known to help lower blood cholesterol levels, which ultimately helps reduce the risk of heart disease.
Another study published in the lancet found that eating at least 25 grams of fiber a day helped control weight, blood sugar, blood pressure levels, and cholesterol.
Along with their fiber content, carrots may also provide heart-healthy benefits through their levels of beta carotene. According to a study published in circulation investigationBeta-carotene was said to help reduce the risk of heart disease, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.
Finally, carrots contain Vitamin Athat experts know has some connection to the health of your heart. However, much more research is needed before we can say for sure how vitamin A can help your heart.
So the next time you’re in the mood for a quick snack and want to roast some delicious veggies in the oven, try grabbing some carrots and giving your body a dose of heart-healthy nutrients.
