Beetroot juice contains antioxidants, electrolytes and other compounds that may help maintain heart and brain health, among other things.
Beets are a tuberous, sweet root vegetable that most people either love or hate. It is nothing new on the market, but in the last decade it has become a superfood.
Research shows that beetroot juice can be beneficial to your health, and here's how.
1. It can help lower blood pressure
A 2022 study reported that nitrate from beetroot juice lowered blood pressure in adults with hypertension.
Nitrates are compounds in beetroot juice that convert to nitric oxide in the blood and help dilate and relax blood vessels.
2. It can improve endurance during exercise
Consumption of beetroot juice can increase plasma nitrate levels and improve physical performance.
Research from 2017 showed that long-term consumption of beetroot juice (more than five to six days) has the following benefits:
- improvement of physical skills
- reduction of exhaustion
- improvement of the cardio-respiratory system
However, the scientists also noted that combining beetroot juice with caffeine may reduce the positive effects of the vegetable, although more research is needed.
3. It can help maintain weight
Pure beetroot juice is low in calories and virtually fat-free. That's why it's a great option for a morning smoothie if you're trying to lose weight.
However, keep in mind that beets are rich in natural sugars.
4. It can help reduce the risk of cancer
Beets get their rich color from betalain, a water-soluble antioxidant. It also contains other flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds that may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Betalains and other antioxidants help find and destroy free radicals, or unstable molecules in the body that can promote inflammation and increase the risk of cancer.
5. May help maintain health during chemotherapy
Some research suggests that beetroot juice helps patients with side effects of chemotherapy, such as fatigue.
However, the authors note that additional research is needed, especially to see if beet juice is not a contraindication with chemotherapy and other medications.
6. Good source ikaliuwith
Beets are a good source of ikaliumit, minerals and electrolytes that help nerves and muscles function properly. Drinking beet juice in moderation can help maintain optimal K levelsaliumit.
If the levels eqaliumit become too low, fatigue, weakness and muscle cramps may occur. KaliuA very low mi can lead to a life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm. Very high levels of kaliumit can result in similar symptoms and be life-threatening.
People with chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease may need to be careful with taking ecaliumyth, so consult a doctor before consuming beetroot juice regularly.
7. Good source of other minerals
The body cannot function properly without essential minerals. Some minerals strengthen the immune system, while others contribute to the strengthening of bones and teeth.
Except kaliumyth, beetroot juice is an excellent source of iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, zinc, copper and selenium.
8. Good source of folate
Folate is a B vitamin that helps prevent neural tube defects. It can also reduce the risk of premature birth. Beet juice is a good source of folate.
9. May help with liver health
The antioxidant betaine potentially helps prevent or reduce fatty deposits in the liver, according to animal studies. Betaine may also help protect the liver from toxins, although more research is needed.
Fatty deposits in the liver can lead to a condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease due to:
- poor nutrition
- excessive consumption of alcohol
- exposure to toxic substances
- excessive sitting posture
10. It can help lower cholesterol
If you have high cholesterol, include beetroot juice in your diet. The betanin in beetroot juice can help lower LDL or bad cholesterol.
A 2020 study says that beet juice can have a big effect on LDL and HDL, or good cholesterol.