How beets benefit your health and performance
If you’re looking to add something different to your plate at mealtime, try beets. This vibrant vegetable is known for its earthy flavor and packs a punch with a variety of benefits that will help you perform at your best.
Health benefits of beets
Beets get their deep red coloring from betalains. This natural pigment has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help lower your risk for diseases like asthma, cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity.
They’re also low in calories and high in fiber.
Nutritional benefits of beets
Beets are a superfood that contain the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. They’re a good source of vitamins such as:
- Vitamin A: Supports vision and bone health
- Vitamin C: Boosts immune system and wound healing
- Folate: Promotes cell growth and function
- Potassium: Regulates blood pressure and heartbeat
Performance benefits of beets
Drinking beet juice two to three hours before exercising can help you perform at your best. Beets are high in nitrates, which your body converts into nitric oxide. This opens your blood vessels and allows for more blood and oxygen to flow through your body, increasing your endurance.
How to add beets into your diet
Beets are a versatile vegetable, making them easy to incorporate into meals. Try beets raw, blended, juiced, pickled, dried, roasted or air fried. Add them to salads and sandwiches or put them in the blender to make sauces or hummus. Any way you slice it, beets will elevate your next meal.
Side effects of beets
Try to avoid a high intake of beets to prevent side effects such as red urine, low blood pressure and digestive problems. Experts say it’s safe to eat beets three to four times a week with a well-balanced diet.
For more nutrition tips, visit the nutrition page on our blog.
