Beets are also known as beetroots. They fall under vegetables. Beets are not popular among people even though they are included in numerous cuisines. They are considered health because of their ingredients. Beets are rich in minerals and vitamins, among others. This is the reason they are considered to have plenty of health benefits. Furthermore, beets have a very delicious taste and can be adopted in the meals. Below are some health benefits of beets:
Beets contain few calories and plenty of nutrients
Beets are one of the nutritious vegetables. They have impressive levels of nutrients. Beets contain low amounts of calories and high amounts of nutrients. Minerals, protein and vitamins benefit the body in numerous ways. Below are some benefits of these nutrients:
- Protein helps the build muscles. It also repairs damaged muscles.
- Fat helps reduce inflammation. It also helps normal function of the brain.
- Fiber helps normalize bowel movement. It also helps lower bad cholesterol.
- Vitamin c aids the formation of collagen
- Folate is used in the formation of the white and the red blood cells.
- Vitamin B6 can significantly reduce depression. It also reduces the risks of heart attack.
- Magnesium helps control type 2 diabetes. This mineral can also help manage depression.
- Potassium reduces the risks of different kinds of diseases such as blood pressure, stroke and kidney stones, among others.
Beets also contain high amounts of Iron, manganese and phosphorous. Pigments and inorganic nitrates are other compounds found in beets. The compounds also have medicinal values.
Beets can keep blood pressure levels at bay
High blood pressure increases the risks of stroke, heart failure and heart attack. These conditions are linked with uncontrolled high blood pressure. Research reveals that people with high blood pressure who frequently eat beets can lower their blood pressure levels. The positive effects of beets are stronger when you consume raw beets. Beets contain high amounts of nitrates. These nitrates are responsible for lowering high blood pressure levels. The effects of nitrates are temporary. Therefore, those who frequently consume beets are more likely to keep their blood pressure levels intact. Effects of beets last roughly six hours.
It can improve the performance of Athletes
As seen above, beets contain high amounts of nitrates. Nitrates can improve the performance of athletes. This is the reason a lot of athletes frequently take beets. Nitrates enhance the performance of athletes by enhancing the performance of mitochondria. Mitochondria are responsible for producing energy. Beets can slow down the exhaustion rate of an athlete. This will automatically boost the overall performance of an athlete. Beets also improve oxygen consumption by more than twenty percent. Cyclists can also benefit from beets. The nitrates in beets are effective roughly two to three hours after consumption.
Beets help fight inflammation
Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous diseases. These conditions range from cancer, liver disease, heart disease and obesity. Betalains are pigments found in beets. These compounds have some anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, they can protect you from inflammation. Beetroot can be consumed in different forms. Beetroot extract and beetroot juice reduces kidney inflammation. Numerous studies have been carried out to support this statement. Betalain pigments can also be consumed as capsules. These capsules are made from beet extract. They can reduce discomfort and pain caused by Osteoarthritis.
It can improve the digestive tract health
Fiber is one of the components found in beet. This component helps the body in various ways. Fiber is well known for improving the wellness of the digestive tract. This component performs its function in two ways. It can bypass the digestion process and feed the colon with the good gut bacteria. Fiber also deals with some complications in the digestive tract. These complications range from constipation, diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel disease. Fiber found in beets also reduces the possibility of some chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart condition and colon cancer.
Beets can improve the wellness of the brain
The cognitive and mental performance depreciates as a person ages. This makes us prone to some conditions such as dementia. The brain wellness may be affected by reducing in oxygen supply and blood flow. Studies indicate that nitrates in beetroots are capable of improving both the cognitive and the mental health. Nitrates perform this function by dilating blood vessels. This speeds up the rate in which blood is transported to the brain. Efficient blood flow to the brain is linked to high thinking. Make an effort of taking at least a glass of beet root every day.
It contains anti-cancer properties
Cancer is a chronic condition. It is also one of the leading killer diseases in the globe. Cancer is characterized by uncontrollable cell growth. Beets contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidants. These properties make it effective in preventing cancer. Beets perform this function by preventing the growth and division of the tumors. Betalain pigments found in beets are also capable of inhibiting the growth of breast and prostate cancer.
It aids in weight loss
Beet roots have some nutrients which can promote weight loss. This vegetable contains high amounts of water and low calories. People who continue taking meals with low calories are more likely to lose weight. Beets also contain fiber and protein. Protein and fiber also play a vital role in weight loss. They promote fullness by reducing appetite in the body. Frequently take beets and accompany it with low calorie meals.
It is delicious and can be included in different diets
Beets are known for their delicious tastes. This is the reason they are included in different meals. Furthermore, beets come in different forms. It can be pickled, juiced, steamed or roasted. Fresh beets taste better when compared to those that have been around for a long time. Beets can be taken as beetroot dip, beetroot salad, beetroot leaves and beetroot juice.
Bottom line
It is evident that beets have numerous health benefits to our body. This is thanks to the pigments and nitrates. Frequently consume beets if you want some of the above benefits.
