6 benefits of beetroot that make it a superfood

Beetroot is a nutritional powerhouse with its deep red colour and sweet taste. It contains essential vitamins, minerals, and unique compounds, which have gained it much popularity among health enthusiasts. Here are 6reasons why beetroot is a superfood worth adding to your diet.

Rich Source of Nutrients and Fiber
Beetroot is nutritious. It contains a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. These include folate, vitamin C, potassium, iron, and manganese. Folates are necessary for cell growth and function. These are highly important to pregnant women because they contribute to fetal development. The beetroot also contains fiber, which will promote digestion hence a healthy gut. Beneficial bacteria growth aids in keeping a healthy gut by aiding in cholesterol lowering and stable blood sugar.

Athletic Performance
Beetroot is a superfood that improves athletic performance. It contains a high amount of nitrates, which convert to nitric oxide inside the body. Nitric oxide is a compound that increases the width of blood vessels, improving blood flow to deliver oxygen more efficiently into the muscles. Scientists have also been able to show that it is possible to drink beetroot juice to improve endurance; that is, athletes can run a farther distance without feeling exhausted, and with lesser exhaustion as well. In a study published in the journal Nutrients conducted in 2012, more stamina and energy of stamina and energy are said to be gained through drinking of beetroot juice by sportsmen. Beetroot juices are said to be one of the most popular natural supplementing options for runners and cyclists in the present time. Increased nitric oxide production from the consumption of beets relaxes and opens up blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow through. According to a study in the American Journal of Physiology, regular consumption of beetroot juice significantly lowers both systolic and diastolic pressure in hypertensive individuals. This is a natural means of regulating blood pressure, which consequently lowers the risks of heart disease and stroke, making beetroot an excellent addition to your diet.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Beetroot contains strong antioxidants, such as betalains, responsible for its bright red colour. These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to heart disease, cancer, and other autoimmune diseases. Betalains in beetroot can inhibit some inflammatory enzymes, thus promoting general well-being and even alleviating symptoms of inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Beetroot is good for anyone interested in controlling inflammation naturally.

Promotes Liver Health
The liver detoxifies the body, and beetroot will be helpful to the process. Beetroot contains a compound called betaine that facilitates the efflux of toxins from liver cells so that the liver functions better. Other contents in the beetroot such as antioxidants and fiber, also cleanse the liver to ensure that waste products leave the body through the production of bile. This would be a nutrient of great value for diet in anyone interested in using natural detoxification, as beets will promote liver cleansing and overall body cleansing activity.

Improves Cognition
Beet root's ability to produce Nitric Oxide can even benefit the mind. Blood flow to the brain naturally decreases with advancing age and can impair such cognitive function and memory ability. High blood flow and high levels of oxygen supply to the brain could keep its surface clear and memory fresh. Researchers at Wake Forest University found older adults drank beetroot juice before exercising who had higher connectivity levels in motor and attention-related areas of the brain. This neuroprotective activity means that beetroot might play an important role in the diet of older adults in helping to maintain healthy cognitive functions over the long term. A little beetroot will complement your diet, raw, juiced, or in salads. Considering the rich nutritional value, anti-inflammatory attributes, and the ability to boost vital organs, this is a superfood for life.

Promotes Healthy Skin
The antioxidants in beetroot can help improve skin health and may contribute to a more radiant complexion. It is also said that beetroot improves the blood circulation in the body, which also helps tone the facial skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and provide a natural glow and shine to the skin.

(Image courtesy: Canva)