CARROT
Both written history and molecular genetic studies indicate that the domestic carrot has a single origin in Central Asia. Its wild ancestors probably originated in Persia (regions of which are now Iran and Afghanistan), which remains the centre of diversity for the wild carrot Daucus carota.
The plant probably originated in Persia and was originally cultivated for its leaves and seeds. The most commonly eaten part of the plant is the taproot, although the stems and leaves are also eaten. The domestic carrot has been selectively bred for its greatly enlarged, more palatable, less woody-textured taproot.
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that world production of carrots and turnips (these plants are combined by the FAO) for 2018 was 40 million tonnes, with 45% of the world total grown in China. Carrots are widely used in many cuisines, especially in the preparation of salads, and carrot salads are a tradition in many regional cuisines.
Raw carrots are 88% water, 9% carbohydrates, 0.9% protein, 2.8% dietary fiber, 1% ash and 0.2% fat. Carrot dietary fiber comprises mostly cellulose, with smaller proportions of hemicellulose, lignin and starch. Free sugars in carrot include sucrose, glucose, and fructose.
The carrot gets its characteristic, bright orange colour from β-carotene, and lesser amounts of α-carotene, γ-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.[69] α- and β-carotenes are partly metabolized into vitamin A,[70][71] providing more than 100% of the Daily Value (DV) per 100 g serving of carrots (right table). Carrots are also a good source of vitamin K (13% DV) and vitamin B6 (11% DV)
Health Benefit
- Boosts eye health
Are you or your child struggling with poor eyesight? Carrots to the rescue! Carrots have been regarded as the fool-proof traditional remedy to improve eyesight. According to the book Healing foods carrots are rich in lutein and lycopene which help maintain good eyesight and night vision. The high amount of vitamin A also helps boost a healthy eyesight.
- Aids Weight Loss
If you are on a weight loss diet, your diet must include foods that are high on fibre, and carrots with both soluble and insoluble fibres perfectly fit the bill. Fibre takes the longest to digest and thus promotes a feeling of fullness and prevents you from bingeing on other fattening foods.
- Ensures bowel regularity and helps in digestion
The significant amount of dietary fiber in carrots plays an important role in maintaining good digestive health. Fiber makes your stool bulky which helps it pass smoothly through the digestive tract and prevents conditions like constipation.
- Fights cholesterol and boosts heart health
The high fibre quotient of carrots also boosts heart health removing excess LDL cholesterol from the walls of arteries and blood vessels. According to the book ‘Healing Foods’ by DK Publishing carrots “contains a form of calcium easily assimilated by the body that may help lower “unhealthy ” (LDL) cholesterol levels.” The high fibre quotient of carrots also boosts heart health removing excess LDL cholesterol
- Lowers Blood Pressure
Alongwith lowering the levels of bad cholesterol, carrots are packed with potassium. Potassium helps relax the tension in your blood vessels and arteries, which enhances the blood flow circulation and brings down your elevated BP. High blood pressure is linked to conditions like atherosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks. So load up on carrots for a step towards a healthier heart.
- Boosts skin health
The juicy red wonders can help give your skin a radiant glow too. Apart from the beta carotene, lutein and lycopene, the high silicon content of the root can promote healthy skin and nails. To make the most of it’s nutrition have them raw.
- Boosts immunity
Carrots are packed with various vitamins, minerals and antioxidants such as vitamins B6 and K, potassium, phosphorous, etc. which contribute to bone health, stronger nervous system and help improve brain power. The antioxidants, apart from helping the body against free radical damage, guard the body against harmful bacteria, viruses and inflammation.
Financial Benefit
Nigeria, West Africa is well blessed with varieties of food crops and carrots are no exception, carrot is largely cultivated in the Northern Nigeria. Major producing states are Plateau, Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto, Jos.Currently, Nigeria boast of being the largest producer of Carrot in sub-Saharan African with an estimate of 22500 tonnes annually, boosting our revenue to about $720million naira, but we are still far behind world wide as we rank 32nd in the world.