New research highlights potential of carrots in blood sugar control

According to its article, SciTechDaily features that recent research highlights the potential health benefits of carrots, particularly in regulating blood sugar levels and improving gut health. 

A recent study from the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) indicates that carrots could aid in regulating blood sugar levels and improving gut health, potentially benefiting those with type 2 diabetes.

The research found that carrots may enhance the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels and positively influence the composition of gut bacteria.

Type 2 diabetes affects millions worldwide, with a rising number of cases both globally and in Denmark. Since 1996, the number of diagnosed cases in Denmark has more than quadrupled.

Carrots contain bioactive compounds that improve the ability of cells to absorb sugar, thereby supporting blood sugar regulation. These bioactive substances, which come from unsaturated fatty acids, are also found in other vegetables from the carrot family, such as parsley, celery, and parsnips.

Preliminary results from a similar study on carrots’ effects on colon cancer suggest that consuming as little as 30–40 grams of raw or lightly cooked carrots daily could have beneficial effects.

According to the researchers, the concentration of bioactive compounds varies significantly across different carrot varieties. However, the right variety can provide enough of these compounds without the need for concentrated products. For instance, the ‘Night Bird’ variety, a purple carrot, contains relatively high levels of bioactive substances.

The primary bioactive compounds in carrots are falcarinol and falcarindiol, which the vegetable produces as a defense mechanism against fungal infections. In addition to their antifungal properties, these compounds also exhibit antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects.

By Naila Huseynova