In winter, beets and carrots are the two most recommended vegetables to consume in salad or juice form, due to their incredible overall health benefits.

Although both seem to belong to the same vegetable family and are packed with nutrients, you have to wonder which of them is better. Well, here is a brief comparative review of carrot and beetroot to try to address the concern.

Basic Difference Between Beets and Carrots

Both are root vegetables that thrive in cool season areas. They come in a range of shades and have many health benefits. Beets and carrots, however, vary in their nutritional content. Beets come in a variety of colors, including orange, white, yellow, and purple. Beets and carrots are root vegetables, however, carrots have longer roots. They are able to aerate difficult soil this way.

They can be grown close to each other without affecting each other due to their different root systems. However, to give the carrots enough room to grow sideways, you need to leave a little space between the rows of beets. Despite their great resemblance, beets and carrots are grown quite distinctly. Beets are a great seasonal crop and the ideal temperature range for them to grow is between 50 and 70 degrees F.

Although a winter crop, carrots can survive temperatures as low as 20 degrees F. However, warmer temperatures will result in slow growth and coarse-textured roots.

Health Benefits of Carrots and Beets

Beets and carrots come in a rainbow of colors, although our mental images may be orange and purple. They are not only delicious, but also loaded with healthy elements. They can be eaten as green vegetables, although most people eat them as root vegetables.

Beets are a fantastic addition to a healthy diet as they are high in fiber and low in calories. They also contain vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of fiber, potassium, magnesium and iron. They promote healthy bowel movements and maintain energy balance.

Vitamin A, which is abundant in beets and carrots and is beneficial in treating eye and skin conditions. Vitamin A prevents the skin from aging and protects it from sun damage. Moreover, it supports clear vision. Xerophthalmia, which can lead to daytime visual impairment, can result from vitamin A deficiency.

Carrot or Beetroot: Which is better for the skin?

Since ancient times, beets have been used for their antioxidants. They have also been used for skin whitening and sun protection. Due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing qualities, beetroot juice can also be used as a face mask to restore a youthful-looking complexion to the skin. Additionally, beetroot is a good source of dietary fiber and helpful for a healthy digestive system.

Meanwhile, carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals and promote healthy skin. They contain vitamin C, which helps stop skin pigmentation. Plus, they contain beta-carotene, which boosts immune function and inhibits the growth of cancer cells.

Both vegetables further help in reducing weight and blood pressure.

First published: November 17, 2022, 06:26 IST