Can Carrots Help Prevent Dementia?
Thursday, November 15th, 2007 Subscribe To Our Feed
The humble carrot which contains beta-carotene could well help people ward off dementia and orher mental illnesses (Alzheimers). The reason is that the beta-carotene is processed by the liver to produce Vitamin A. Recent research has shown that men who took beta-carotene had fewer mental decline illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
This study will certainly have an impact on care of the elderly in helping to stave off these debilitating mental illnesses. Other studies over the years have shown that heart disease and certain cancers can be prevented if beta-carotene is part of a healthy balanced diet.
What other foods contain beta carotene ? Beta-carotene is a member of the carotenoids, which are highly pigmented (red, orange, yellow), fat-soluble compounds naturally present in many fruits, grains, oil and vegetables sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, apricots, coriander and green peppers. Beta-carotene is converted to retinol, which is essential for vision .
People who have been exposed to asbestos, heavy smokers and drinkers should avoid taking beta-carotene supplements. There is evidence to show that beta-carotene in these subjects may actually increase the rates of prostate cancer and lung cancer.
Another great quality of beta-carotene is that is an antioxidant and therefore protects the cells from the damage caused by the free radicals. It also plays a role in hindering the oxidation of cholesterol which makes it an even more valuable ally. People who take beta-carotene in excess (especially those who are addicted to sun-tanning) will have discoloration on the palms of their ands and soles of the feet.
So here are a few recipes to encourage you to get going. Carrot juice is a great healthy standby but can be used in smoothies for many delicious recipes. As I adore mint, I like this especially. Put 3 carrots, 1 apple, I stick of celery and some fresh mint into the blender and you have a delicious smoothie.
What better than a warm nutritious soup of carrots and lentils on a cold winter’s day? . Here is the recipe :- cumin seeds and chili flakes (these can be dry fried in the pan to release their aromas). Add in the grated carrots, oil, lentils, milk and vegetable stock. Let it boil and then simmer it for about 15 minutes. Mix it in the blender until it is smooth. Serve it with natural yogurt and coriander which also contains beta-carotene !
To sum up, beta-carotene can be only one element in a healthy balanced diet. You may want to consider including this very valuable substance in your diet from now on. It will not only help you ward off heart disease but will keep your mind active and alert for a long time, by staving off Alzheimer’s Disease. One of the easiest ways is to include more soups and smoothies in your diet. Look below for the link to a great recipe book for smoothies.
About the Author:
Would you like to prevent mental illness? Time to change your diet to include beta-carotene foods. Super Smoothie Recipes Visit the Wellness Bible For The Latest Health Tips You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.
Tags: dementia.disease
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