Beetroot, also known as beets, is a root vegetable that is highly nutritious and commonly consumed all over the world. It has a distinctive deep red color and a sweet, earthy taste.
Beetroot is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, iron, vitamin C, and folate. It’s also a good source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and nitrates, which may have various health benefits, such as improving blood pressure and reducing inflammation.
Beetroot can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and even desserts.
- Prevents Cancer
- Improve Brain Function
- Manages Blood Pressure
- Reduces Bad Cholesterol
- Improves Sexual Health
- Bone Health
- Keeps Diabetes Under Check
- Good For Pregnant Women
- Helps Relieve Fatigue
- Treats Anaemia
1. Prevents Cancer
Studies suggest that beetroot may have cancer-fighting properties due to its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory content. The betalains found in beetroot may also have anti-cancer effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential of beetroot in cancer prevention and treatment.
2. Improve Brain Function
Beetroot is rich in nitrates, which can increase blood flow to the brain and improve cognitive function. Studies suggest that consuming beetroot juice may enhance brain activity, particularly in areas associated with attention and executive function. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal amount of beetroot needed for cognitive benefits.
3. Manages Blood Pressure
Beetroot is high in dietary nitrates, which can be converted into nitric oxide in the body, a compound that helps relax and widen blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure. Multiple studies have found that consuming beetroot juice or beetroot supplements can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension.
4. Reduces Bad Cholesterol
Studies have found that beetroot can help lower levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol in the blood. The fiber and plant compounds in beetroot may help reduce cholesterol absorption in the gut and increase the excretion of bile acids, which can contribute to a decrease in LDL cholesterol levels.
5. Improves Sexual Health
Beetroot contains nitrates that can improve blood flow, including to the genitals, which may help improve sexual function. Additionally, the high folate content in beetroot may also play a role in promoting healthy sperm production. However, more research is needed to determine the specific effects of beetroot on sexual health.
6. Bone Health
Beetroot is a good source of several minerals that are important for bone health, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These minerals, along with vitamin C, which is also found in beetroot, are essential for maintaining healthy bones and preventing conditions such as osteoporosis. However, more research is needed to determine the specific role of beetroot in bone health.
7. Keeps Diabetes Under Check
Beetroot is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a good choice for people with diabetes who need to manage their blood sugar levels. Studies have found that beetroot juice or supplements can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
8. Good For Pregnant Women
Beetroot is a good source of several nutrients that are important for pregnant women, including folate, iron, and vitamin C. These nutrients play a crucial role in fetal development and can help prevent birth defects, anemia, and other complications during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should consult with their doctor before making significant changes to their diet.
9. Helps Relieve Fatigue
Beetroot is high in nitrates, which can improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles, thereby reducing fatigue during exercise. Additionally, the betalains found in beetroot have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce muscle damage and soreness after exercise, further reducing feelings of fatigue.
10. Treats Anaemia
Beetroot is a good source of iron, a mineral that is essential for red blood cell production and can help treat and prevent anemia. The vitamin C found in beetroot can also help enhance iron absorption in the body. However, people with iron overload disorders should avoid consuming too much beetroot.
