I love beetroot – it is sweet, earthy and delicious to eat, and it has many health benefits.
It is a nutrient rich root vegetable that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, manganese, potassium, vitamin C and iron. All these nutrients are important for overall health and play various important roles in the body.
Beetroot contains nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. This helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure so eating beetroot regularly helps in reducing the risk of heart disease.
It can also improve exercise performance because the nitrates can enhance endurance by improving oxygen delivery to the muscles thereby reducing the oxygen cost of exercise. Consuming beetroot juice or beetroot supplements before workouts may improve stamina and exercise efficiency.
Beetroot is also rich in antioxidants, including Betalains and Betacyanins, which help protect cells against damage caused by harmful free radicals. Antioxidants have been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. The Betalains, which are the pigments responsible for the vibrant colour of beets have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, and chronic inflammation is associated with various health problems therefore consuming beets may help reduce inflammation in the body.
In addition beets are a good source of dietary fibre, aiding digestion and promoting bowel regularity and can help prevent constipation and promote a healthy digestive system. And as beets are relatively low in calories and high in fibre, eating them can help you feel full for longer so a good addition to a weight management diet.
Finally because of the nitrates in beets there may be improved blood flow to the brain and this can have positive effects on cognitive function and brain health. Some studies suggest that eating beetroot may enhance mental performance and help prevent age related cognitive decline.
As with anything, beetroot should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and that individual results may vary. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is best to consult with a health professional for personalised advice.