What are the benefits of black carrots powder?
Black carrots have a unique taste, different from white or orange carrots. And they are extremely healthy for you. Here are the potential benefits of black carrots you shouldn't ignore.
Is black carrot good for your health?
Black carrots, also known as purple carrots, are an intriguing variant of the common orange carrot. The rich, deep colour of this carrot is attributed to anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants found in many purple or dark-coloured fruits and vegetables. From a medical standpoint, black carrots offer several potential health benefits owing to their unique phytochemical composition.
“The high anthocyanin content in black carrots may contribute to their antioxidative properties, aiding in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation within the body. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralising free radicals, thereby potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues and even certain cancers,” says Nutritionist Dr Priyanka Rohatgi.
Moreover, black carrots contain various vitamins and minerals essential for overall health. They are a good source of vitamin A, essential for vision health, immune function, and skin health. Additionally, they provide vitamin K1, important for blood clotting, and vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties.
What are the benefits of black carrots?
Black carrots, often distinguished by their deep purple hue, offer an array of health benefits owing to their unique phytochemical composition. Here are some of the benefits of black carrots you must know:
1. Reduces inflammation
It’s fascinating to know that the high anthocyanin content in black carrots serves as a potent antioxidant. These antioxidants can combat oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases like cardiovascular ailments, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Further, anthocyanins help to reduce inflammation in the body, potentially aiding in the prevention of various inflammatory conditions.
2. Contains essential vitamins and minerals
Black carrots are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for our overall health. They are rich in vitamin A, which is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting the immune system, and promoting skin health. Additionally, black carrots provide vitamin K1, which is essential for blood clotting, and vitamin C, which is renowned for its immune-boosting properties.
3. Promotes digestive health
The dietary fibre found in black carrots plays a pivotal role in digestive health. Adequate fibre intake supports regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and may contribute to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, adds the expert.
4. Reduces diabetes
It can help regulate blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. For those with diabetes, fibre also has the added benefit of regulating insulin and glucose release in the body and lowering cholesterol.
Use of Black Carrot in the Food Industry
Black carrots can be incorporated into food in the same way as regular orange carrots. However, these deep purple vegetables have the advantage thanks to their attractive visual appeal, rich nutritional profile, and numerous health benefits.
Black carrot extract is used in the food and nutrition industry to perform various functions. The aqueous extract of black carrot is rich in anthocyanins which are potent antioxidants and color compounds. Black carrot has various functions, including the following:
Natural colorant
Source of anthocyanins
Flavoring agent
Preservative (antioxidant)
Culinary Uses of Black Carrots
Cooking with Black Carrots
Black carrots can be used in a variety of culinary applications. Their slightly sweet and earthy flavor makes them a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. They can be roasted, steamed, boiled, or even grilled.
Black Carrot Juice
Black carrot juice is a popular beverage in various cultures, known for its vibrant color and health benefits. The juice can be consumed on its own or used as a base for smoothies and other beverages.
Baking and Desserts
The natural sweetness of black carrots makes them an excellent ingredient for baking. They can be used in cakes, muffins, and bread, adding both flavor and nutritional value.
Salads and Sides
Black carrots add a pop of color and a nutritional boost to salads and side dishes. They can be shredded, sliced, or julienned and paired with other vegetables for a vibrant and healthy meal.
Applications in the Food and Beverage Industry
Black carrot as a vegetable has several applications in culinary preparations, as shown in the following table.
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Bakery | Cakes, Cookies, Muffins |
| Confectionery | Icings, Hard Boiled Candies, Gums |
| Beverages | Flavored Beverages, Fruit Juices |
| Convenience Foods | Jams, Jellies, Powdered Beverages |
| Dairy | Ice Cream, Acidified Milk, Cream |
| Others | Soups, Salads |
Black carrot performs many functions, as the following table illustrates.
| Category | Functions |
|---|---|
| Food Products | Flavoring Agents, Colorants, Preservatives |
| Functional Foods & Beverages | Antioxidants, Colorants |
| Nutraceutical | Active Agents |
Nutritional Profile of Black Carrots
Rich in Anthocyanins
Anthocyanins are potent antioxidants found in black carrots, responsible for their deep purple to black hue. These compounds have been linked to numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and the potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
High in Dietary Fiber
Black carrots are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is essential for maintaining digestive health. A diet rich in fiber can help prevent constipation, lower cholesterol levels, and regulate blood sugar levels.
Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals
Black carrots are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in vitamin A, which is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. Additionally, they contain significant amounts of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.
Micronutrients
The micronutrient profile of black carrot per 100g is as follows.
| Vitamins and Other Components | Amount |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C, Total Ascorbic Acid | 5.9 mg |
| Thiamin | 0.066 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.058 mg |
| Niacin | 0.983 mg |
| Pantothenic Acid | 0.273 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.138 mg |
| Folate, Total | 19 µg |
| Choline, Total | 8.8 mg |
| Betaine | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 835 µg |
| Anthocyanins | 1.5-126 mg |
| Vitamin A, IU | 16706 IU |
| Lycopene | 1 µg |
| Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) | 0.66 mg |
| Vitamin K (phylloquinone) | 13.2 µg |
| Lutein and Zeaxanthin | 256 µg |
| Tocopherol, Beta | 0.01 mg |
| Tocotrienol, Alpha | 0.01 mg |
Source: USDA
Conclusion
Black carrots are a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet. Their rich anthocyanin content provides numerous health benefits, while their unique flavor and vibrant color make them a valuable ingredient in various culinary applications. Whether you are looking to grow your own black carrots or incorporate them into your cooking, understanding their benefits and uses can help you make the most of this remarkable root vegetable.
Sources & Resources
FAO – Black Carrot Extract
Research Gate – Characterization of black carrot (Daucus carota L.) polyphenols; role in health promotion and disease prevention: An overview
The Pharma Journal – Utilization and characteristics of black carrot (Daucus carrot L.): Potential health benefits and effect of processing
CAB Direct – Evaluation of bioactive properties of Indian carrot (Daucus carota L.): a chemometric approach.
USDA – Carrots, raw
Science Direct – Polyphenolic profile and biological activities of black carrot crude extract (Daucus carota L. ssp. sativus var. atrorubens Alef.)
