I love root vegetables of all kinds. One of my favorites is the lovely beet. They taste good in salads, as a garnish, or, my favorite, roasted in the oven. The beet greens are fabulous juiced, and they make the juice an appealing red color. The only thing I dislike about beets is that when they are cut, they bleed all over my counter.
Besides tasting delicious, beets are full of nitric oxide which provides 10 health benefits.
- Lowers Blood Pressure—With as little as one cup of beet juice per day, blood pressure can be reduced to normal levels
- Increases physical stamina—a 2020 study showed that beet juice could enhance endurance and physical performance
- Controls blood sugar and weight—because of its anti-inflammatory function, beets could be a great addition to managing obesity
- Improves brain function—improves blood flow to the brain and increases circulation according to a Wake Forest Study
- Prevents cancer—powerful source of antioxidants and anthocyanins which fight cancer
- Improves digestion—promotes healthy bacteria and has 3.8 grams of fiber per cup
- Reduces inflammation—contains betalains, which are anti-inflammatory
- Boosts immunity—beets contain vital minerals and vitamins: magnesium, iron, Folate, manganese with a high concentration of vitamin C
- Detoxifies the liver and boosts liver function—increases circulation and removes wastes from the cells
- May increase longevity—antioxidant activity fights free radical damage and improves cardiovascular function
With all of these benefits, it is no wonder that traditional Chinese medicine has recommended beets for thousands of years.
Until next time,
Dr. Polly
