Consumption Of Carrot Prevents Colon Cancer

A Nutritionist, Mrs Osas Egwebe, has said that carrot juice has anti-carcinogen properties that helps in the protection of cancer of the colon and other ailments. Egwebe told newsmen on Monday in Abuja that carrot contained good amount of the anti-cancer nutrient called Beta-Carotene.

                       
   
                              

She said “an anti-carcinogen is any chemical which reduces the occurrence of cancers, reduces the severity of cancers that do occur. “Beta-carotene can ward off cancers of the stomach, cervix, uterus, the oral cavity and also helps to prevent heart disease due to its antioxidant abilities.

“Beta-carotene has been linked to reduced risk of several cancers, notably lung and colon cancers. Research has proven that getting the proper level of antioxidants into our bloodstream will reduce the risk of concern.

“Researchers found out that eating carrots reduces the risk of colon cancer by as much as 24 per cent. Another study also shows that women who eat raw carrots are five to eight times less likely to develop breast cancer than women who do not eat carrots.’’

The nutritionist explained that daily consumption of the vegetable could also reduce the risk of stroke by 68 per cent, adding that people who ate more than five carrots a week were less likely to suffer a stroke than those who ate only one carrot a month. Egwebe said regular consumption of carrots could reduce cholesterol level which was good at preventing heart-related problems.

She added that “carrot is also rich in vitamin A and it is good for good eyesight. “Carrot juice strengthens the eyes and keeps the mucus membranes of all cavities of the body in healthy condition. Eating carrot immediately after food can kill all the harmful germs in the mouth.

“It cleanses the teeth, removes the food particles from cavities, checks bleeding of the gums and tooth decay. “Carrot is good for blood sugar regulation because of the presence of carotenoids in them. Carotenoids inversely affect insulin resistance and thus lower blood sugar.

“Carotenoids are natural pigments which are synthesised by plants and are responsible for the bright colours of various fruits and vegetables.’’ The expert noted that carrot soup was a home remedy for diarrhea “because it calms the bowel and slows down bacterial development.

“The soup gives sodium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, sulfur and magnesium essential to check diarrhea, as well as the growth of harmful bacteria and prevents vomiting.’’ Egwebe explained that regular consumption of carrot juice could prevent the formation of gastric ulcer and other digestive disorders and could serve as laxative.

“Carrot juice is an effective remedy in diseases like intestinal colic, colitis, appendicitis, peptic ulcer and dyspepsia. “Also, eating raw carrot or in grated form helps fights aging, maintain healthy skin, hair, bones and eyesight and can be used for healing wounds, cuts and inflammation.’’

The nutritionist further added that fresh carrot juice could help to relieve stress, fatigue and energise the body, as well as strengthen the immune system. She then urged people susceptible to health conditions such as ulcer, among others, to include carrot in their daily diet.