One of the reasons plant-based diets are recommended for #cancerprevention is that they contain protective phytochemicals. One type of phytochemical is carotenoids. Carotenoids have been linked to cancer prevention and are also protective against heart disease, macular degeneration and cataracts.
Carotenoids are found in carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, apricots, green peppers, cantaloupe, kale and many other foods! They are a fat soluble compound meaning they need to be consumed with a little fat for absorption.
The most common forms of carotenoids are α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A. It's worth noting that if your are using supplements, there is an upper limit on vitamin A.
It's always best to consume foods closest to their original source (a carrot stick vs. carrot cake.)
Could you add some carrots and peppers with hummus to your snack lineup for the weekend?
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