Twelve health advantages of beetroot

08Feb2024                          By: Rohit Kumar                    Karnataka, Bangalore 560043

Since ancient Rome, people have been consuming beetroot, the red portion of the plant, for good reason. The ancient root vegetable originates from Asia, Europe, and the coasts of North Africa. Due to its sweet flavor and numerous health benefits of beetroot, it has gained popularity worldwide. I have investigated the research supporting some of its health benefits to help you decide whether or not to incorporate beetroot into your diet. Keep reading to learn how beetroot can benefit you.

Beets can lower elevated blood pressure.

beets benefits
Discover the health benefits of beetroot – a versatile and nutritious root vegetable with a rich history dating back to ancient times.

Beetroot increases the amount of nitric oxide in our bodies due to its inclusion of nitrates. The body naturally produces nitric oxide, which instructs to widen blood vessels, thereby boosting blood flow and reducing blood pressure. According to a study, the consumption of one glass of beet juice or an equivalent amount can significantly lower systolic blood pressure by 4-5 mmHg. As a result, beetroot is considered a useful dietary supplement for treating and preventing several cardiovascular diseases.

People with heart disease and heart failure can benefit from beetroot.

A study published in Circulation: Heart Failure found that increased muscle power was observed in patients with heart failure after they consumed a glass of beetroot juice, highlighting another health benefit of this vegetable, which is enhanced muscle power, particularly in the heart.

You can workout for longer with beetroot.

One study found that consuming beetroot juice can actually increase stamina, allowing individuals to exercise for up to 16% longer, indicating that these nitrates contribute to better workout performance by sustaining a certain level of exertion for longer due to the increased oxygen supply to our muscles.

Beetroot can assist in preventing cancerous cells.

Preliminary research has indicated that beetroot may exert a beneficial effect on malignant cells, as shown in animal tests where the betalain pigments in beets reduced tumor cells. A study conducted on human cells also revealed a similar impact when betalain was applied to cancer cells of the breast and prostate, although this advantage hasn’t been extensively studied yet.

Long-term condition symptoms may be alleviated by beetroot.

The high nitrate content in beetroot can help with a number of chronic illnesses.

Diabetes

Researchers have discovered that the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid is associated with lower blood glucose levels and higher insulin sensitivity in diabetics. Additionally, it has been demonstrated to lessen diabetic neuropathy symptoms (nerve damage).

Alzheimer’s disease

One study has shown that a high nitrate diet enhances the flow of oxygen to brain regions in older adults, a condition common in dementia-stricken adults.

Beetroot aids in maintaining a healthy weight.

Beets are so beneficial to weight loss due to their nutritional composition.

Sugar content in beets: 100 grams of cooked beets (such as those found in stores already prepared) have 44 kcal.

Nutrient Amount % of Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)
Sugar content in beets 44 kcal N/A
Fiber 2 grams 0.8 of RDA
Protein 1.7 grams 3% of RDA
Fat Almost none N/A

Consuming beetroot keeps potassium levels in check.

Benefit Details
Keeps Potassium Levels in Check 100g of beetroot provides 9% of recommended daily allowance for potassium, helping prevent weakness, exhaustion, and intestinal problems.
Combat Inflammation Beetroot contains betalains, important pigments with anti-inflammatory qualities. One serving provides 6% of daily magnesium needs, along with copper and folate for stronger bones.
Keeps the Liver Healthy Regular consumption of beet juice or including beetroot in the diet can raise levels of liver-cleansing enzymes, promoting better liver function and protection.
Supports Healthy Pregnancy Beetroot contains 20% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of folate, which can support a healthy pregnancy. Adequate folate intake may reduce the likelihood of pregnancy-related birth abnormalities.

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