Ever wondered what health benefits beetroot could provide? Nutritionist Alix Woods shares the top benefits of this nutrient dense superfood…
1. Prevent winter sniffles
Beetroots are full of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and protects cells from inflammation and free radical damage. It promotes collagen production, wound healing and aids iron absorption.
2. Cut the cramps
Beetroots are packed with minerals especially potassium, which is an essential electrolyte mineral for nerve and muscle function. It helps keep the heart beating rhythmically, stops muscles cramping and weakness.
3. Good for gut health
Beetroot is one of the richest sources the amino acid glutamine, which is essential to the health and maintenance of the intestinal tract, especially if the immune system is under attack when ill. Glutamine is essential for the immune cells and having regular servings of beetroot helps maintain levels.
4. Can support weight loss
Beetroots are a low calorie, fat free vegetable, full of energy promoting nutrients that can help give one a lift. They have been found to increase plasma nitrate levels, which increases stamina and physical performance and this can help one to lose weight. Beetroots can be added to smoothies and or juices!
5. Boost brain health
Nitrates in beetroot juice increase blood flow to all parts of the brain and a study found that older people who regularly drank beetroot juice had better blood circulation in the frontal lobes of their brains.
6. Blood Pressure
Beetroot juice has been found to help lower blood pressure as the nitrates are converted to nitric oxide and help widen and relax the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow with ease.
