Health Benefits of Beet Juice: Why Athletes Need to Drink it Every Day

One of the healthiest foods that you have never heard of is a Beetroot or Beet. It is full of healthy nutrients and minerals that are beneficial for daily consumption. Beet is rich in Vitamin A and C, iron, protein, potassium, fiber, and good carbs. If that wasn’t all, they also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.

There are certain compounds in beetroot juice, such as nitrates and battalions that help improve athletic performance. According to 2017 research, nitrates boost athletic efficiency by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the muscles.

Few recent health studies have associated the consumption of beet juice with improved exercise performance. A study analyzed the effects of betalain on 28 trained male cyclists. The cyclists received 100 mg of either beetroot concentrate or placebo every day for a week. Compared with the placebo group, the beetroot concentrate group had higher exercise efficiency and increased blood flow. Hence, beet juice helps your muscles to perform the same amount of work while using less oxygen, somehow making your body’s energy production more efficient.

The best way to get a dose of every beneficial part of the beet is with a glass of beet juice. Nutritionist, Dr. Simran Sain suggests that it is best to have beetroot juice early morning or one hour before your breakfast. She says “Drink a 200 ml glass of beetroot juice every day to reap all its benefits. But drink it fresh else the nutritional value of the juice diminishes.”

We have listed below six unbelievable benefits of drinking beetroot juice every day.

1. Lowers High Blood Pressure

A study revealed that drinking 250 ml of beetroot juice every day for 4 weeks decreased blood pressure among people with hypertension. Researchers believe Beets have nitrates, which can bring your blood pressure down to normal level. Compare the number of nitrates in beets to other vegetables and you will see that the amount is significantly higher. This is the reason that people suffering from high blood pressure should drink a glass of beet juice and feel the effects instantly.

2. Prevents Anemia

Iron is an essential component of red blood cells. Without iron, red blood cells cannot transport oxygen around the body. People who have low iron levels develop iron deficiency known as anemia. Adding sources of iron to the diet can reduce the risk of this condition. Beetroots are rich in iron that helps prevent anemia.

3. Rich in Potassium

Potassium is a mineral electrolyte that helps nerves and muscles function properly. Lower levels of potassium in the body lead to fatigue, weakness, and muscle cramps. Moreover, very low potassium may be life-threatening resulting in abnormal heart rhythms. Beets are rich in potassium. Drinking beetroot juice in moderation can help keep your potassium levels optimal.

4. Boosts Energy

Beetroot juice helps in opening the blood vessels and thus increases the flow of oxygen throughout your body making you feel more active. Athletes, and some non-athletes know how tough it can be to survive daily workouts. High-intensity workouts, like boxing and cross-training, especially require that extra bit of tolerance that beet juice offers. A glass of beetroot juice before the workout will give you a much-needed energy boost.

5. Good Source of Vitamin C

Beetroot juice is an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps boosts your immune system and protect cells from damaging free radicals. It also supports collagen production, wound healing, and iron absorption. Athletes need a good dose of vitamin C for intense workouts and better performance.

6. Reduces Inflammation

Beets and beet juice are a good source of betalains. These are known to help reduce inflammation in the body. They function by decreasing the activity of certain enzymes that can trigger inflammation in the body of athletes after heavy workouts and matches.

Summary

Beetroots are a healthy addition to your diet. Athletes can gain the health benefits of beetroots by eating them raw or cooked or by drinking beetroot juice. Beet juice is a great option as it contains many beneficial nutrients that the cooking process can destroy.