Ever heard that old saying, “Eat your carrots, they’re good for your eyes”? Carrots have this long-standing reputation as eye health champs. But, seriously, are these crunchy orange goodies the real deal for our eyes? And hey, let’s not forget how easy it is to grow these nutritious little powerhouses!
KwaZulu-Natal-based optometrist Ncedile Ngobese, sheds light on this matter in an article on Health For Mzansi.
Ngobese carrots contain a substance called beta-carotene, which is converted by the body into vitamin A. This essential nutrient is vital for eye health, making carrots beneficial for healthier eyes.
She further explains more on the nutritional value of carrots and how it is not only good for your eyes, but all the benefits munching on it has on the whole body.
However, as with many other things in the world, too much of a good thing might not always be good. And it’s the same with eating too much carrots.
“Too much of anything becomes a problem. Since beta-carotene gives that yellowish colour, if you consume too many carrots, your skin colour can change. You can even start getting stomach cramps, bloating, or dry skin due to too much vitamin A in your system.”
Health For Mzansi readers share their carrot stories in the article.
Grow your own
Growing carrots can be a walk in the park, if you follow some basic guidelines.
According to farmer and agricultural writer Louise Brodie from the Western Cape, to grow carrots, carrot seeds are sown directly in the field on ridges.
“Row planting is better than broadcast sowing. The seeding depth should be 25 mm to 40 mm in loose, light sands. Sow in moist soil and keep the soil moist.”
Brodie shares more tips on sowing and planting time, the climate, growth period, and irrigation.
READ THE FULL ARTICLE ON HEALTH FOR MZANSI.
This article was first published on Health For Mzansi and written by Candice Khumalo.
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