Drinking beetroot juice increases stamina and could help people exercise for up to 16% longer, claims a new study conducted in the UK. A University of Exeter (U-E) led study shows for the first time how nitrate in beetroot juice leads to a reduction in oxygen uptake, therefore making exercise less tiring.

Beetroot juice also aids in reducing your blood pressure. Researchers say that a daily glass of beetroot juice can do wonders for hypertension and many cardiovascular diseases.

Beetroot has the power to cleanse your system and increase haemoglobin, along with purifying your blood.

Nutritional facts in Beetroot

• Vitamins – Beetroot is a good source of vitamin C and folic acid. It also contains small amounts of vitamins B1, B2, B3, and vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene.
• Minerals: Rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. Also, smaller amounts of iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and selenium.
• Amino Acids: While raw beets are mostly water and carbohydrate, they also contain small amounts of all the amino acids (protein).
• Calories: One 2″ (5cm) beetroot contains 35 calories.
• Antioxidants: Its carotenoids and flavanoids can help reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol which could lead to damaged artery walls and ultimately heart attacks and strokes.
• Anti-carcinogenic Color: The deep red color of beetroot comes from betacyanin. This prevents from colon cancer.
• Silica: The rich stock of silica in it does perfect utilization of calcium in the body and is also required for healthy skin, hair, nails and bones.

A Recipe for Beetroot Juice

• Grated Beetroot – 1 Cup
• Grated Carrot – 1 Cup
• Orange Juice – 3 tbsp
• Sugar as needed.

Put all the ingredients into a food processor and grind the concoction to a smooth puree. Add desired water to maintain sufficient fluidity to the mixture. You can store the beetroot juice in the refrigerator for consumption afterwards.

Words of Caution

• It is advisable to drink beetroot juice as a combination with either veggies or fruits.
• Having this juice by itself can temporarily paralyse your vocal chords, make you break out in hives, increase your heart rate, cause chills or a fever.
• Beets are best used moderately in small amounts.

Next time you decide to go shopping for vegetables, make sure you include beetroot in your vegetables list.

[Sources : Agro Products, BBC]