Carrots

What are Carrots?

Carrots are a root vegetable, rich in nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and fiber.
Carrots are primarily bright orange, but can be found in a variety of colors including purple, white, red, and yellow.

Carrots are a versatile vegetable and are great for picky eaters as they can be incorporated into kid-friendly recipes, like carrot cake pancakes!
Carrots are nutritionally similar to sweet potatoes in that they contain vitamin A and fiber, two nutrients that are great for kids on the autism spectrum.

Vitamin A is linked to improved behavior associated with autism. It is also linked to improving the immune system [2].
Fiber is an essential part of the diet and current studies show that increased dietary fiber can improve digestive health, manage blood sugars, and promote healthy weight. It acts as food for the good bacteria in your gut that can help with constipation, a common condition in many kids with autism[4].

Nutrient Breakdown

Carrots are a great source of:

Foods Containing Carrots

Soups and stews
Chips (like these)
Vegetable juice (like these)
Baby foods, purees, and pouches (like these)
Carrot bread
Vegetable blends (fresh or frozen)
Veggie fries (like these)

Carrot Alternatives

If your child doesn’t like carrots yet or they are sensitive to them, here are some alternatives that are similar in nutritional value!

Sweet potatoes
Pumpkin puree
Butternut squash
Parsnips

Food Reactions

The body can respond to foods in many different ways including food allergies, food sensitivities, or food intolerances. If you suspect a food reaction, you can either choose to avoid the food or seek food reaction testing. Click here more information on the difference in types of food reactions and testing options.

DISCLAIMER: Always consult with your pediatrician and/or your Registered Dietitian to help you test for a food reaction or to aid you in making individualized dietary changes.

Carrots & Autism in the Research

There are no current studies on autism and carrots. However, carrots are a source of Vitamin A which has been studied in relation to autism. To learn more about vitamin A, visit the Vitamin A note.

Descript[1] Carrots, raw [includes USDA commodity food a099] Nutrition Facts & Calories. Nutrition Data know what you eat. (n.d.). Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2383/2?quantity=4.5
[2] Liu, Z., Wang, J., Xu, Q., Hong, Q., Zhu, J., & Chi, X. (2021, December 7). Research progress in Vitamin A and autism spectrum disorder. Behavioural neurology. Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8670912/
[3] Sharma, K. D., Karki, S., Thakur, N. S., & Attri, S. (2012, February). Chemical Composition, functional properties and processing of Carrot-A Review. Journal of food science and technology. Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3550877/
[4] Taniya MA;Chung HJ;Al Mamun A;Alam S;Aziz MA;Emon NU;Islam MM;Hong SS;Podder BR;Ara Mimi A;Aktar Suchi S;Xiao J; (n.d.). Role of gut microbiome in autism spectrum disorder and its therapeutic regulation. Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology. Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35937689/ion text goes here

Authors

Brittyn Coleman, MS, RDN/LD, CLT

Sarah Buie