Carrots are such a versatile and widely loved vegetable, with extensive health benefits. Carrots are a rich source of antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A). The anti-oxidant compounds in carrots help to protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease, to regulate blood sugars, to promote the immune system, and also to benefit vision, especially night vision. Carrots additionally contain significant levels of fibre, vitamins C, B3, K and E, calcium, potassium, zinc, iron and phosphorus. Carrots are best stored in the coolest part of the refrigerator, either wrapped in paper towel or in a plastic bag, and away from fruits and vegetables that produce ethylene gas, such as apples, pears and potatoes, as this will cause carrots to become bitter. To prepare carrots simply cut off the stems and wash them just before eating. There is no need to peel carrots unless they are old, tough or not grown organically. It is necessary to peel conventionally grown carrots as almost all non-organic carrots are sprayed with pesticides and other chemicals.
