Beetroot is low in fat and packed with vitamins and minerals - the ideal health food.
Beetroots are a popular root vegetable that is packed with nutrients. They can be roasted, eaten as a salad or even blended into soup and juice. Either way, it is a healthy superfood that needs a place in your diet.
Below we give you some reasons to start eating beetroots or beets.
Maintains blood pressure levels
Research has shown that beetroots can help lower blood pressure levels. This effect is most likely due to the nitrates in beet that are converted to nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a molecule that helps dilate blood vessels resulting in reduced blood pressure. But the nitrate levels are elevated for only six hours after consumption. Thus, to see the long-term effect you need to consume it regularly.
Promotes liver health
Beets contain calcium, iron, betaine, vitamin B and antioxidants – all nutrients that are good for the liver. Furthermore, it also contains pectin, which is a fibre that aids in eliminating toxins from the liver. The zinc and copper in beets protect the liver from oxidative stress.
Anti-inflammatory properties
The betalain compound in beetroots has high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They help protects the cells from damage and aids in fighting against age-related conditions like heart disease and cancer. Fun fact: the betalain compound is responsible for the redcolour of the roots.
Aids in weight loss
Beets are high in water content and low in calories, an ideal combination for weight-loss food. Also, they contain protein and fibre, which are essential to maintain a healthy weight. The fibre helps suppress appetite and increase feelings of fullness thus, reducing overall calorie intake.
Improves digestive health
The fibre in beetroots not only aids in weight loss but also maintains good digestive health. One cup of beetroot comprises 3.4 grams of fibre. It promotes the production of healthy gut bacteria that prevents digestive conditions like constipation.
While there is no specific amount of beetroots to eat in a day, we recommend around one cup. For beet juice, having 200 to 250 ml per day should help you get the required benefits.
The bottom line is that beetroots are high in minerals and vitamins and an important food to add to your daily diet.
