Beet juice has received rave reviews recently with respect to its ability to lower blood pressure naturally and seemingly without any of the messy side effects normally associated with blood pressure lowering medications. Many researchers have reported that within hours of drinking beet juice patients can begin to see significant decline in their systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. These reports have motivated many hypertensive individuals to include beet juice in their daily eating regimen.

It has long been established that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is paramount for persons suffering from various common ailments like diabetes and hypertension, but the fact that beetroot juice appears to be as effective as prescription drugs in lowering blood pressure makes this an even greater imperative. Like all other fruits and vegetables, beets have been shown to be laden with potent free radical fighting agents, antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the cells against oxidative stress and in so doing help to keep all sorts of infections and diseases at bay.

The abundance of antioxidants in beet roots far exceeds that of other fruits and vegetable; but beets and other leafy green vegetables also contain another substance known as nitrate. Nitrates are said to facilitate the body’s ability to absorb oxygen which in turn assists the body in performing at enhanced levels. In fact, you will often find athletes drinking beet juice prior to workouts and competitive events for this very purpose. While more studies have to be done to further confirm theses assertions, it is believed that the rich source of nitrates in beets is the primary factor responsible for the demonstrated capacity of this root to pronouncedly improve performance and at the same time assist in lowering blood pressure.

Aside from antioxidants and dietary nitrates, beetroots are also said to be rich in folate, potassium, fiber and vitamin C. These substances help to boost the immune system and have also been found to help keep blood pressure reading within acceptable range. Beets can now be found in at least three forms: whole beet roots, beet juice and also beetroot supplements. If you’re considering including beetroot in your diet and you’re concern about your budget at the same time then the supplements or the whole beet root may be your best choice. Beet juice, which is available at most super markets and health food stores, is convenient but it is a bit on the pricy side. You can also purchase beets as a canned food but the nutritional value of this option is far less than the aforementioned choices.

If you are interested in controlling your blood pressure naturally, beet root juice along with other effective natural choices are available to you, but as always do check with your healthcare provider before making any major change to your daily dietary routine.