Benefits:

▣ Beets are loaded with vitamins and minerals and low in calories and fat. They also contain inorganic nitrates and pigments, both of which have a number of health benefits.

▣ Beets contain a high concentration of nitrates, which have a blood pressure-lowering effect. This may lead to a reduced risk of heart attacks, heart failure and stroke.

▣ Eating beets may enhance athletic performance by improving oxygen use and time to exhaustion. To maximize their effects, beets should be consumed 2–3 hours prior to training or competing.

▣ Beets may have a number of anti-inflammatory effects. However, further research in humans is required to confirm this theory.

▣ Beets are a good source of fibre, which is beneficial for digestive health, as well as reducing the risk of a number of chronic health conditions.

▣ Beets contain nitrates, which may help increase blood flow to the brain, improve cognitive function and possibly reduce the risk of dementia. However, more research in this area is needed.

▣ Studies in isolated human cells and rats have shown that the pigments in beets may help reduce the growth of cancer cells.

▣ Beets have a high water and low calorie content. Both of these properties are beneficial for weight loss.

▣ Beetroot is a delicious and versatile vegetable that is easy to add to your diet. Choose beets that are heavy for their size with green tops still attached.