The Health Benefits of Beets

The Health Benefits of Beets

 

We often hear that certain fruits and vegetables are “superfoods” and we would have to agree!  Most fruits and veggies are packed with all kinds of good vitamins, minerals, and even plant chemicals that have numerous health effects. Today we will talk about beets.

Beets are low in calories and high in fiber.  Fiber is important to maintain a healthy GI tract but it also helps lower cholesterol by binding the excess and helping your body to excrete it.  

Beets are also high in nitrates, which becomes nitric oxide in the body.  This is why beets, when eaten regularly, can help lower blood pressure. 

Nitric oxide can dilate blood vessels which increases blood flow in the brain.  This may help with better memory and cognition. Research is showing that beets particularly affect the frontal lobe of the brain which is responsible for decision making and working memory.  

Nitric oxide supplements are often used by athletes to improve athletic performance and recovery but rather than supplementing, you can incorporate some beet juice about 2 hours before a workout. 

Here are some quick and easy ways to incorporate more beets into your diet:

  Beetroot salad: Grated beets make a flavorful and colorful addition to coleslaw.Beetroot dip:

  Beets blended with Greek yogurt make a delicious and healthy dip.

  Beetroot juice: Fresh beetroot juice is best, as store-bought juice can be high in added sugars and may only contain a small amount of beets.

  Beetroot leaves: Beet leaves can be cooked and enjoyed like spinach, so don’t throw them out.

Dr. Kristen Bishop

Dr. Kristen Bishop

Physician

 

This blog was written by Dr. Kristen Bishop. For more information on the Health Benefits of Beets, check out her video on the topic by clicking here!