A new study reveals that snacking on baby carrots just three times a week can significantly boost skin carotenoid levels in young adults. These phytonutrients, responsible for the red, orange, and yellow pigments in many fruits and vegetables, are a marker of fruit and vegetable intake and are linked to better antioxidant protection and a lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
The research found that combining baby carrots with a beta-carotene multivitamin further increased these levels. In a four-week trial involving 60 young adults, skin carotenoid scores increased by 10.8% with baby carrots alone and by 21.6% when combined with the supplement.
These findings suggest that a simple dietary addition of baby carrots can improve skin health and immune function and underscores the potential health benefits of small, manageable dietary changes.