Food fads come and go, but beetroots aren’t one of them. Its bitter taste might take a bit of getting used to, but it’s a small price for health and nutrition.

Health benefits of eating beetroot

Not a fan of this bitter root and its red-purple stains? You’re missing out. This humble root crop offers a number of science-backed health benefits. Here are some of them, according to a nutritionist:

Regulates blood pressure

Beetroot contains plant compounds called nitrates that are transformed into nitric oxide inside the arteries. Once inside, nitric oxide causes the arteries to dilate, thus reducing blood pressure and boosting blood circulation. Better blood pressure regulation also means a reduced risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

Nitric oxide has also been found to boost blood flow to the brain. For this reason alone, beetroot is often cited as a potent brain-booster. For best results, studies suggest drinking concentrated beetroot juice instead of non-concentrated ones to get a more potent dose of the root’s nutrients and plant compounds.

Enhances athletic performance

Beetroot juice is a go-to workout drink for both fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes. Studies found that beetroot juice helps suppress the onset of fatigue, and it also eases muscle soreness. These benefits are also attributed to beetroot’s high amounts of nitrates that protect both the heart and lungs from strain.

Nitrate has also been found to boost muscle function. This, alongside beetroot’s anti-fatigue properties, leads to better stamina and performance, according to recent studies. In fact, one such research found that drinking beetroot juice helped professional cyclists enhance their performance.

Combat inflammation

Betalains are a group of cancer-fighting plant pigments responsible for beetroot’s rich red-purple skin. But make no mistake: betalains are some of beetroot’s strongest plant compounds as these pigments help protect different organs from inflammation that can lead to chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

Simple methods for preparing beetroot

Beetroot can be the perfect addition to meat dishes and salad greens. No matter how it’s consumed, beetroot offers the same nutrients and health benefits, so don’t be afraid to experiment and switch it up from time to time.

Don’t know where to start? Take a look at how most people like their beetroots:

Beetroot juice

Beetroot juice contains a lot less fiber than the root itself. That said, it’s still one of the healthiest forms of beetroot because it offers a more concentrated dose of nutrients.

Raw beetroot

There’s nothing like snacking on raw beetroot sticks or slices. Although some people like their beetroot cooked, heat can kill important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, so it’s best to eat it as is.

Beetroot chips

Feeling creative? Make beetroot chips. Chop the root into thin, manageable slices and send them to the oven. The slices should come out as dried beetroot chips perfect for cheese dips.

Pickled beetroot

You can also make pickled beetroot to extend its shelf life. Just clean the root and bring it to a boil in a medium saucepan. Let it simmer until the root is tender and chop it into thin slices. Dunk it into a jar or container filled with a mixture of pickling salt and vinegar. It should be good to eat after a week.

Science tells us that beetroot is one of the most nutritious superfoods out there despite being among the least popular ones. To make the most of its nutrients and health benefits, eat beetroots (and beet greens) as part of a balanced diet.

Read more articles about the health benefits of beetroot and other colorful vegetables at Veggie.news.

Sources:

EatingWell.com

NaturalMedicineJournal.com