Beets are extremely healthy as they have potent medicinal properties and offer relief in the case of various ailments and diseases.
The anthocyanins give them the red color and have strong anti-cancer properties.
Moreover, beets contain betaine, which is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that supports heart health, as well as important vitamins and minerals including vitamins B1, B2, B12 and C, copper, magnesium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, and iodine.
Beets boost blood flow, regulate cholesterol levels, and support the healthy liver function.
Beets fight anemia and detoxify the body. They also decelerate aging and protect the blood vessels. They are high in antioxidants, cellulose, and pectin, a special type of fiber which boosts digestion. These healthy vegetable protect against liver disease fatty liver disease.
Beets also boost the endurance, stamina, and performance during a workout, so they are extremely beneficial for athletes.
Beets can be eaten raw, juiced, cooked, and baked. You should not throw away the leaves, but you can cook them as they are rich in potassium (644 mg. per ½ a cup).
Studies have shown that the consumption of potassium-rich foods and the elimination of sodium can lower the risk of heart diseases and the stroke risk by 21%.
~ 6 REASONS WHY TO EAT BEETS ~
1. Lower Your Blood Pressure
Drinking beet juice may help to lower blood pressure in a matter of hours. One study found that drinking one glass of beet juice lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 4-5 points.
The benefit likely comes from the naturally occurring nitrates in beets, which are converted into nitric oxide in your body. Nitric oxide, in turn, helps to relax and dilate your blood vessels, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
2. Boost Your Stamina
If you need a boost to make it through your next workout, beet juice may again prove valuable. Those who drank beet juice prior to exercise were able to exercise for up to 16 percent longer.The benefit is thought to also be related to nitrates turning into nitric oxide, which may reduce the oxygen cost of low-intensity exercise as well as enhance tolerance to high-intensity exercise.
3. Fight Inflammation
Beets are a unique source of betaine, a nutrient that helps protects cells, proteins, and enzymes from environmental stress. It’s also known to help fight inflammation, protect internal organs, improve vascular risk factors, enhance performance, and likely help prevent numerous chronic disease As reported by the World’s Healthiest Foods:
“[Betaine’s]… presence in our diet has been associated with lower levels of several inflammatory markers, including C reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. As a group, the anti-inflammatory molecules found in beets may eventually be shown to provide cardiovascular benefits in large-scale human studies, as well as anti-inflammatory benefits for other body systems.”
4. Anti-Cancer Properties
The powerful phytonutrients that give beets their deep crimson color may help to ward off cancer. Research has shown that beetroot extract reduced multi-organ tumor formations in various animal models when administered in drinking water, for instance, while beetroot extract is also being studied for use in treating human pancreatic, breast, and prostate cancers.
5. Rich in Valuable Nutrients and Fiber
Beets are high in immune-boosting vitamin C, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium (essential for healthy nerve and muscle function) and manganese (which is good for your bones, liver, kidneys, and pancreas). Beets also contain the B vitamin folate, which helps reduce the risk of birth defects.
6. Detoxification Support
The betalin pigments in beets support your body’s Phase 2 detoxification process, which is when broken down toxins are bound to other molecules so they can be excreted from your body. Traditionally, beets are valued for their support in detoxification and helping to purify your blood and your liver.
Written for Natural Healing Magazine ~ December 7, 2016.
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