When it comes to healthy foods, it's impossible not to mention beets. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are essential for health
Beets promote heart health, detoxification of the liver, brain health and much more. If you have not tasted fresh beets or energizing beet juice for a long time, then it's time to get back into the habit of enjoying the health benefits of this colorful vegetable.
The best health benefits of beets:
1. Great source of antioxidants:
Beets, like many other fruits and vegetables, are full of antioxidants that help promote good health for many of our organs, including the heart, by protecting against the damage caused by free radicals at the cellular level.
Free radicals are responsible for dozens of health problems, including some types of cancer. So eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as beetroot, will provide you with the antioxidants your body needs to promote sustainable well-being. They can even act as anti-inflammatories to help protect you from some forms of mild inflammation.
2. Supports cardiovascular health:
Beets contain natural nitrates. These compounds become nitric oxide in your blood and can help promote cardiovascular health. Nitric oxide can widen blood vessels, increasing oxygen efficiency for the heart and other vital organs.
Beets also contain fiber and betaine, both of which support a healthy heart. Fiber helps promote healthy levels of cholesterol, while betaine can reduce homocysteine, an amino acid in the blood that contributes to heart disease.
3. Encourages brain health:
Beets promote a healthy mind and mood. While these nitrates stimulate blood flow to the heart and lungs, your brain also receives more blood. It can help your mind be more alive.
Similarly, fresh beets contain brain health-promoting compounds, including antioxidants, magnesium, vitamin C, and betaine. An animal study also showed that mice had less stress and anxiety when receiving beetroot leaf extracts.
4. Promotes strong bones:
Beets are filled with nutrients that help form strong bones. These nutrients include minerals such as copper, folate and magnesium. Beets also contain silica, a mineral that promotes healthy levels of calcium absorption in your body.
5. Stimulates detoxification:
Beets are one of the best vegetables to support the body's natural detoxification mechanisms. The pigment that gives beets their unique color, betalain, also helps to expel toxins from the body. Betalans work with your body's natural defense mechanisms to help eliminate toxins.