Beetroot is a root vegetable that is often used in salads and juices. It has a deep red colour and a slightly sweet, earthy taste. Beetroot is a good source of fibre, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in calories and fat.
In recent years, beetroot has gained popularity for its many health benefits. Some of the most well-documented benefits of beetroot include:
1. Improved heart health
Contents
- 1 1. Improved heart health
- 2 2. Reduced risk of stroke
- 3 3. Improved cognitive function
- 4 4. Anti-inflammatory properties
- 5 5. Improved exercise performance
- 6 6. Detoxification
- 7 7. Cancer prevention
- 8 8. Weight loss
- 9 9. Skin health
- 10 10. Hair Health
- 11 11. Digestive Health
- 12 12. Immune system health
- 13 13. Bone health
- 14 How to add beetroot to your diet
Beetroot is a good source of nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Reduced risk of stroke
The nitrates in beetroot may also help to reduce the risk of stroke. One study found that people who drank beetroot juice for six weeks had lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of stroke.
3. Improved cognitive function
Beetroot juice has been shown to improve cognitive function in older adults. One study found that people who drank beetroot juice for four weeks had improved memory and attention.
4. Anti-inflammatory properties
Beetroot contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can benefit people with conditions such as arthritis and cancer.
5. Improved exercise performance
Beetroot juice has been shown to improve exercise performance. One study found that people who drank beetroot juice before running a marathon had improved stamina and performance.
6. Detoxification
Beetroot is a good source of betalains, which are pigments that give beetroot its red colour. Betalains have antioxidant and detoxifying properties. They may help to protect the liver from damage and promote detoxification.
7. Cancer prevention
Some studies have shown that beetroot may help to prevent cancer. The betalains in beetroot have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Beetroot is also a good source of fibre, which is thought to protect against colon cancer.
8. Weight loss
Beetroot is a low-calorie vegetable that is high in fibre. This makes it a good food for people who are trying to lose weight. Fibre helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, so you are less likely to overeat.
9. Skin health
Beetroot is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for skin health. Vitamin C helps to protect the skin from damage and promotes collagen production. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its structure and elasticity.
10. Hair Health
Beetroot is a good source of folate, which is important for hair health. Folate helps to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.
11. Digestive Health
Beetroot is a good source of fibre, which is important for digestive health. Fibre helps to keep your digestive system moving smoothly and prevents constipation.
12. Immune system health
Beetroot is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune system health. Vitamin C helps to protect the body from infection.
13. Bone health
Beetroot is a good source of boron, which is important for bone health. Boron helps to build and maintain strong bones.
How to add beetroot to your diet
Beetroot can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced. It can be added to salads, soups, stews, and stir-fries. It can also be roasted or pickled.
Beetroot juice is a popular health drink. It can be purchased at most grocery stores or made at home.