Nutritional value
Excellent source of carotene, turned by the body into vitamin A which is essential for growth and eyesight and fighting infections; as an anti-oxidant, it helps protect against heart disease and cancer. Two- to four-year-olds need 400-500 micrograms daily; five vitamin drops a day (plus a good normal diet) is recommended. Carrots also contain useful amounts of potassium and fibre.
Using carrots
As carrots vary greatly in nutritive value, aim for organic or home grown.
Scrub rather than peel to retain the thin, especially carotene-rich outer layer. Prefer cooked carrots to raw, as cooking breaks down carrots' tough cell walls to release the carotene.
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