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A recent study has revealed that snacking on baby carrots just three times a week can significantly elevate skin carotenoid levels in young adults. The study, presented by Mary Harper Simmons, a Master of Science in Nutrition student at Samford University, will be featured at NUTRITION 2024, the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition in Chicago from June 29 to July 2.
Carotenoids are phytonutrients responsible for the vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues in many fruits and vegetables. These pigments, which can be measured in the skin, are exclusive to dietary sources. Elevated skin carotenoid levels are linked to enhanced antioxidant protection and a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers. Additionally, higher levels indicate improved skin health and immune function.
In the study, researchers randomly assigned 60 young adults into four groups for a four-week intervention. The groups received either Granny Smith apple slices (control), 100 grams (about half a cup) of baby carrots, a multivitamin supplement containing beta carotene, or a combination of baby carrots and the supplement. Using a noninvasive research-grade spectroscopy instrument called a VeggieMeter, the researchers measured skin carotenoid levels before and after the intervention.
The results showed that skin carotenoid levels increased by 10.8% in participants who consumed baby carrots and by 21.6% in those who had both the carrots and the supplement. No significant changes were observed in the control group or in participants who took only the supplement.
“We found that the combination of baby carrots and a multivitamin supplement containing beta carotene can have an interactive effect on skin carotenoid accumulation,” said Simmons. “To achieve a beneficial effect, people should choose a multivitamin that contains beta carotene and eat baby carrots at least three times a week.”
The study also noted that multivitamin supplementation alone did not increase carotenoid levels, suggesting potential differences in how carotenoids are absorbed from food versus supplements. The researchers aim to explore the mechanisms behind these findings further and investigate the effects of other carotenoid-rich foods, such as sweet potatoes and green leafy vegetables.
These findings suggest that a simple dietary modification—incorporating baby carrots as a regular snack—can significantly enhance skin carotenoid levels and potentially improve overall health.
