Nutritional benefits of beetroot
A 100g serving of raw beets provides:
• 36 kcals/154KJ
• 7g protein
• 1g fat
• 6g carbs
• 5g fiber
• 380mg potassium
• 150mcg folate
What are the top five health benefits of beetroot?
1. May have anti-cancer properties
The plant pigment that gives beetroot its rich, purple-crimson color is betacyanin; a powerful agent, thought to help suppress the development of some types of cancer including bladder cancer.
2. May lower blood pressure
Beetroot is naturally rich in compounds called nitrates, making them heart-friendly. Nitrates help to improve blood flow by relaxing the blood vessels, reducing arterial stiffness and promoting dilation which potentially lowers blood pressure. A reduction in blood pressure is beneficial for the avoidance of heart disease and stroke. Studies suggest that nitrate-rich foods, like beetroot, may also help in heart attack survival.
3. May improve exercise performance and support energy levels
Beetroot juice has also gained popularity since Paralympic gold medalist, David Weir, announced that a shot of the juice was his secret to success.
Studies support this with findings reporting that when athletes add beetroot juice to their regime it may support exercise endurance and improve performance. It also aids recovery because when muscles are in a resting state, the nitrates in beetroot helps to bring more oxygen to the muscle cells helping muscles recover more efficiently. For the rest of us, including beetroot in our diets might be the energy boost we need.
4. May improve digestive health
Beetroots are one of the richest sources of glutamine, an amino acid essential to the health and maintenance of our gut. They are also rich in fiber, which as well as supporting bowel function helps support the environment of the gut and the beneficial bacteria that reside there.
5. May be anti-inflammatory
Red beetroots have been ranked as one of the 10 most potent antioxidant vegetables. The betalain compounds, responsible for the root’s red color, have been shown to have high anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. This means they help protect cells from damage and may be helpful in the fight against age-related conditions like heart disease and cancer.
Is beetroot safe for everyone?
For some people, eating beetroot may induce beeturia; a red or pink color in the urine or stool. It is totally harmless! Beet greens and, to a lesser extent, the roots contain high levels of a natural compound called oxalate. Individuals with a history of oxalate-containing kidney stones should avoid over-consuming high oxalate foods, like beetroot.
Source: www.bbcgoodfood.com
Santegra®’s product Red Clover Forte contains beetroot.
