The health benefits of beets range from lower blood pressure to improved athletic performance.
This is because beets boast a range of health benefits.
Beets are also chock-full of folate, fiber and potassium.
Photographer: Fred Hardy II, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser
Considering all the hype surrounding beetslike beet supplements touting various health benefitsis it really safe to consume beets daily?
Many studies that are done on beets also have participants eating themor drinking the juiceevery day or most days.
They also state that studies suggest that those with untreated hypertension see the greatest effects with beet juice.
Photographer: Fred Hardy II, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser
Athletic Performance
Featured recipe:Ginger-Beet Juice
Beets may improve endurance too.
The result for you?
An extra edge to beat out (pun intended!)
Photographer: Fred Hardy II, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser
There may be more benefits beyond vasodilation for recreationally active people, too.
Of course, you could also try it and see how it affects your own workouts.
Inflammation
Beets are high in betalains, a group of cancer-fighting antioxidants.
Betalainsdecrease inflammationthat could otherwise increase your risk for chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
As with anything, too much of a good thing can be too much.
Because beets contain nitrates, it is unknown if ingesting beets in large quantities could be harmful.
Beets are high in oxalates, which tend to increase uric acid levels.
If you’re looking to enhance athletic performance, drink up.
Juicing beets delivers a concentrated dose of nitrates, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
However, you lose the fiber when you juice the beets.
That’s not necessarily bad news if you’re about to run a race.
Or lightly steam them for just a few minutes, suggests Doyle.
Gone are the days of only eating beets from a can or salad bar.
Beet chipsand pickled beets are popular, as well.
Pickled beets can be healthy, but be mindful that the pickling process often adds sodium and sugar.
The Bottom Line
you’re able to’t beat beets!
Like any other food, beets are not a magic pill or cure-all.
One serving is about 1 cup of beetroot or 8 ounce of juice.
