Beets have been around for centuries, but they are gaining popularity as a superfood due to their many health benefits. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends including beets in your diet to potentially reduce your risk of heart disease and other health problems. Not only are beets incredibly nutrient-dense, but they also contain anti-inflammatory properties that can improve digestive health, mental clarity, and overall well-being. In this article, we explore the 8 proven benefits of beetroot according to the AHA – so read on to learn more!
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Heart health:
Red beets are an excellent source of dietary nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps relax and widen blood vessels, lower blood pressure and improve circulation throughout the body. This can reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Additionally, red beets are rich in antioxidants such as betalains, which help protect cells from oxidative damage that can lead to heart disease.
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Blood sugar control:
The high fiber content of red beets helps slow digestion and keep sugar levels stable after meals, which reduces blood sugar spikes. Additionally, studies have shown that eating beetroot can improve insulin sensitivity and increase glucose tolerance, both of which help regulate blood sugar levels over time.
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Cancer prevention:
Red beets contain betacyanin compounds that have been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer and prostate cancer. Betacyanins also provide antioxidant protection against cell damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to cancer growth.
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Liver health:
The high fiber content of red beets helps remove toxins from the liver and aid digestion to improve overall health and well-being. Red beets contain a compound called betaine that helps reduce fatty liver disease by stimulating fat-burning enzymes in liver cells and supporting overall healthy liver function.
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Improved digestion:
Red beets are high in dietary fiber, which helps food move through the digestive system properly while promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria for better overall digestion. Studies have also shown that beetroot juice may help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, acid reflux, and bloating, thanks to its high antioxidant content.
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Weight management:
Consuming foods such as beetroots is associated with lower body weight due to their high fiber content which keeps you feeling full longer while aiding digestion processes for better nutrient absorption without adding calories or fat in your diet. Additionally, regular consumption of beetroot juice has been linked to increased metabolism, which helps burn more calories over time and makes it easier to manage weight gain issues related to age or weight gain. life habits.
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Bone health:
Perhaps less well known is the positive effect of beets on bone health, according to the American Heart Association. Red beets contain dietary nitrates, which cause increased blood flow throughout the body, including to the bones, allowing for greater strength. Additionally, studies have found that people who regularly consume beetroot may experience a substantial increase in calcium absorption due to their high manganese content. Finally, their vitamin K content promotes bone health by activating the proteins responsible for maintaining bone mineralization, which makes beets an ideal snack for those who want to ensure optimal bone health.
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Prevention of dementia:
The American Heart Association has identified beetroot as an effective way to protect against dementia, especially in old age. Offering multiple dietary benefits, beets contain important antioxidants, folates and nitrates that help protect individuals against cognitive decline. Studies on the effects of beets on dementia have shown that regular consumption can have a significant impact on mental health and development. People who want to take advantage of this important benefit should consider adding cooked, boiled, or pickled varieties of beets to their daily/weekly regimen for maximum effectiveness.
