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Beetroots have been granted the superfood status and within good reason. These roots are packed and dense with nutrients, water and have practically no fat. Many swear by a serving a day to better overall health and longevity. And beetroot juice is just as beneficial as the vegetable!
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Though this versatile vegetable can be eaten raw, cooked or pickled, its’s easy to incorporate beetroot in your life as a juice. Here are eight reasons you should start drinking beetroot juice today:
1. Nutritional Powerhouse
2. Better Heart Health
3. Works Wonders for Brain Health
4. Has Anti-Cancer Properties
5. Detox For The Liver And Stomach
6. Improves Exercise Stamina
7. Helps Maintain Healthy Weight
8. Gives You Glowing Skin
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Nutritional Powerhouse
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Chances are, if your haemoglobin count is low, your doctor and countless others have already suggested you incorporate beets in your diet. Beetroots have an impressive nutritional profile and are considered powerhouses of nutrition. They contain almost all vitamins and minerals one requires but are also quite modest in terms of calories. They are a good source of potassium and folates. They also contain nitrates and pigments, plant compounds that have a number of health benefits. These are responsible for the improved haemoglobin that beets are renowned for.
TIP: Start small, increase your intake slowly. With all its nutrients, beetroot juice can prove to be quite strong and the digestive system may need some time to get used to it.
2. Better Heart Health
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Consumption of beetroot juice on a regular can contribute to better cardiovascular or heart health. The nitrates in beets turn into nitrate oxides that dilate blood vessels, which results in the blood pressure dropping, taking care of one of the leading reasons for heart failures, attacks and strokes. Nutrients such as flavonoids also help keep cholesterol under check. It can also help improve muscle power in people with heart failure.
TIP: For these reasons, anyone who has low blood pressure should consult with their doctor before deciding to embark on regular consumption of beetroot juice.
3. Works Wonders for Brain Health
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The nitrates present in beets support blood flow helping combat the natural effects of ageing. An increased blood flow would mean more blood and therefore oxygen is made available to the brain, increasing its overall functioning and health. They are also rich in iron, which further helps. Studies suggest beetroot consumption can curb the effects of anaemia and even dementia. Certain studies also point to improved performance of the frontal lobe, the part of the brain responsible for cognitive thinking, behaviour and memory.
TIP: Other ingredients, vegetables or fruits (such as berries) that support brain function can also be added to beetroot juice if that is the primary concern.
4. Has Anti-Cancer Properties
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The betalains, which are antioxidants present in beetroots, can prove effective against some cancer cell lines. Betalains are thought to be free radical scavengers, they help locate and destroy unstable cells within the body. Though the research on the subject is fairly limited, its also quite promising. With its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, along with the nutritional content, beetroots can prove to be a vital aid to prevent or combat cancer.
TIP: Too much beetroot juice regularly can become counter-productive; the body stops breaking the nutrition down after a certain point and it’s going to be tough on the digestive system.
5. Detox For The Liver And Stomach
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Beetroot juice can prove to be a potent cleanser or detoxifier for both the liver and the stomach. The antioxidants in beets can significantly cut down the toxins already present in the liver and can even help prevent further accumulation of the same. It prevents fatty acids from building up and stimulates the liver cells, which can contribute to detoxifying them. Though consuming it as a juice will cut down on the beet’s fibre content, it can still have its fair share and relieve or prevent constipation. It also regulates the acids of the stomach, supporting digestion.
TIP: A glass of beetroot juice is also a great home remedy for an upset stomach.
6. Improves Exercise Stamina
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Since consumption of beetroots can increase blood flow and oxygen, beetroot juice can make one feel more active and energised. For the same reason, it is often considered a great drink pre-workout and good for athletes as it increases the flow of oxygen to the muscles preparing them for the stress ahead. Juices can also be a great source of quick yet healthy sugars that can better a workout. Over time, the consumption would improve the body’s stamina during exercise and improve athletic ability and performance.
TIP: Beetroot juice can also help wake the body if consumed in the mornings, giving you energy for the day.
7. Helps Maintain Healthy Weight
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Beetroot juice has a lot of nutrition with practically no calories and can help you maintain healthy body weight. Along with reducing deficiencies, making your body more receptive to weight loss, it improves digestive function, which can improve nutrient absorption and may even counter fat accumulation. It can promote a feeling of fullness, making you less likely to eat more than you need to, reducing your overall calorie intake.
TIP: Many note a change in the colour of their urine or stool on regular consumption of beet juice, which, though harmless, can be strange if you are not prepared for it.
8. Gives You Glowing Skin
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If the body is healthy on the inside, it's going to reflect it on the outside. The vitamins such as vitamin C and B, that beetroots are packed with, can help clear blemishes along with uneven skin tones and even counter the effects of ageing. Beets also act as natural blood purifiers and can help combat acne, making your skin appear healthier and glowing. Consumption of beetroot juice can help with discolouration and may even impact skin hydration.
TIP: The consumption of beetroot juice has to be regular and consistent to see substantial results. Even then, expect subtle results, at best. It's going to e more preventative than undoing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Who should not consume beetroot juice?
A. Anyone with low blood pressure or with kidney stones should consult a doctor before drinking beet juice regularly. Those who have sensitive digestion should also test out the effects this juice has on their stomach and increase it little-by-little, cautiously. People with unstable blood sugar should also be wary.
Q. Is juicing beetroots the best option?
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A. Juicing can be a great option for those who are not fans of the earthy taste of beets as they can benefit from the freedom to add to the juice(s) of certain fruits like apple or other things such as mint leaves or even honey to balance it out. It is also a superior alternative to cooking beetroot, which can impact the nutritional value.
Q. What is the best way to juice beetroots?
A. Before you start, ensure you wash your beetroots well. If you have a juicer, you simply have to add the beets and juice them. Add a piece of ginger for a little zing, if you like and top if off with a squeeze of fresh lemon. If you are using a blender, peel the beetroots, add water and whizz it until well blended. Squeeze through a fine cloth or a mesh strainer and press to get as much juice as possible. Try not to throw out the pulp, add it to a paratha or roti dough. Consume the juice fresh for best results, although you can store it for a day in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
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