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Fit Business Tips of the Month: May

Source: http://www.ca5aday.com

Fun Fact
Carrots have been around for thousands of years, but they have not always been orange. It used to be more common to find carrots that were white, purple, red, and even black!

Health Benefits
Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is necessary for healthy eyesight, skin, and for helping our bodies fight infection. Carrots are higher in natural sugar than most vegetables, which is what makes them a wonderful sweet, crunchy snack. Including carrots in your lowfat diet, along with a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables, will help you to maintain eye health, boost your immune system, and reduce your risk of some cancers.

Selection
Pick carrots that are deep orange in color. Avoid carrots that are shriveled, soft, or wilted.

Storage
Carrots are best stored in the crisper section of the refrigerator. If you buy carrots with the green tops still on, break off the tops and rinse, place in a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator. Storing them in the refrigerator will preserve their flavor, texture, and vitamin A content.

Preparation Ideas
Although carrots lose some of their vitamins when peeled, dishes prepared with peeled carrots taste fresher. Cook carrots in a small amount of water until they are tender, or save time and cook them in the microwave. For a little extra flavor, season cooked carrots with dill, ginger, honey, brown sugar, parsley, lemon, or orange juice.

GRATED CARROT SALAD

Ingredients
Cabbage
½ pound fresh carrots, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 small clove minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced chives
Salt and freshly ground pepper

Preparation
1. Mix everything in a bowl and season to taste.

Makes 6 servings.

Nutrition Information Per Serving
Calories 230, Carbohydrate 36g, Protein 8g, Total Fat 6g,
Saturated Fat 2g, Cholesterol 13mg, Sodium 225mg, Dietary Fiber 3g



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