Khaberni - The beta-carotene, Vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants found in carrots help support eye health, boost immunity, and enhance skin radiance.
Carrots are considered warming, making them ideal for the colder months. A study titled "Drinking Carrot Juice Increases Total Antioxidants and Reduces Lipid Peroxidation in Adults" suggests that carrot juice can protect the cardiovascular system by increasing total antioxidants and reducing lipid peroxidation, regardless of cardiovascular disease risk indicators.
The nutritional value of carrot juice can be enhanced by adding four readily available kitchen ingredients, as follows:
1- Lemon Juice
A dash of lemon juice assists in detoxification, supports liver health, and promotes the body's natural detox processes. Lemons, rich in Vitamin C, are said to enhance its cleansing properties. It aids in liver detox, improves digestion, and balances the natural sweetness of the carrots with a refreshing tangy flavor, according to Times of India.
Lemon also contains several important natural chemical components such as flavonoids, citric acid, and Vitamin C, in addition to minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Lemon is traditionally used to treat scurvy, high blood pressure, colds, and menstrual disorders. Increasingly, lemon juice is also used in fresh fruit and vegetable drinks and fresh tea products to enhance sensory quality and nutritional value.
2- Ginger
A small piece of fresh ginger can be added to give carrot juice a warm, distinctive flavor. It's said to enhance digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost metabolism.
According to a study titled "Ginger Root," ginger is rich in micronutrients such as Vitamins C and B6, magnesium, potassium, copper, and manganese, in addition to fiber and water. It also contains phytochemicals and polyphenols, with gingerols, shogaols, and parasols being the active components.
The daily recommended dose of ginger powder ranges from 170 mg to 1 gram. Ginger and its metabolites appear to accumulate in the digestive system, alleviating pain through anti-inflammatory effects and calming the digestive system due to its carminative and anti-nausea effects. According to an analytical study, ginger supplements significantly reduce alanine aminotransferase and insulin resistance in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
3- Orange
Furthermore, a study titled "Orange Juice as a Dietary Source of Antioxidants for Hepatitis C Patients Undergoing Antiviral Treatment" suggests that orange juice increases antioxidant capacity, reduces inflammation and serum cholesterol, and maintains body mass, thus protecting against the harmful effects of chronic Hepatitis C virus.
In another study titled "Effects of Citrus Juices and Their Active Components on Inflammation and Immunity," it was revealed that consuming orange juice daily for several weeks reduces markers of inflammation, including C-reactive protein, as confirmed by a recent analytical study. These studies indicate that clinical trials demonstrate the ability of orange juice to reduce inflammation in humans.
4- Apple
Experts also say that adding an apple improves flavor and adds soluble fiber (pectin), which supports digestion and helps remove toxins from the body, while maintaining a feeling of fullness and energy throughout the morning. According to a study titled "Plant Chemicals in Apples and Their Health Benefits," apples contain a wide range of phytochemicals, including quercetin, catechin, phlorizin, and chlorogenic acid, all of which are strong antioxidants.
It has also been shown that apples have strong antioxidant activity, prevent the proliferation of cancer cells, reduce lipid oxidation, and lower cholesterol. Epidemiological studies link apple consumption with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and diabetes.
