Beets have been cultivated for hundreds of years all over the world especially in warm temperate geographical areas. They generally mature as rich red bulbs, but can be found in a variety of colors including orange, golden and white. Beets are popular in places like North America and are available in canned form, fresh whole roots or as processed beetroot juice.

Recently, the interest level in beets has skyrocketed because of it many apparent health benefits. Beets are loaded with substances called antioxidants. Antioxidants are critical in the day-to-day functioning of the body because they protect the millions of cells that comprised the body from being destroyed by free radicals. Free radicals forces cells to malfunction and ignite the genesis of diseases as devastating as cancer.

Aside from boosting the body’s immune system with its abundance of antioxidants, beetroots also contain dietary nitrates in huge amounts. While dietary nitrates are not commonly discussed, they are extremely important in enhancing performance. It is not uncommon to see bodybuilders and elite athletes consuming beetroot juice prior to their exercise routine or pending competition. The fact is nitrates greatly facilitate the uptake of oxygen into the cells and in so doing elevates the body’s energy level which leads to higher levels of performance. This same process is also believed to be of great benefit to the elderly, who often times lack the energy to carryout simple daily tasks.

In addition to antioxidants and dietary nitrates, beetroots also contain trace elements such as magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, folic acid, manganese and zinc. All of which are essential for the proper functioning of the body’s various organs and systems. Several studies have shown that beetroot juice aids in digestion and facilitates bowel movement. Further, researchers have found that by drinking a glass of beetroot daily subjects benefited by detoxifying the liver and stimulating blood flow to the brain. As a corollary to this, some health professionals have posited that this increase in blood flow to the brain may be responsible for reducing the incidence of dementia in the elderly.

In terms of the circulatory system, the huge benefit is of cause its ability to lower blood pressure, but researchers have also found that beetroot is effective in preventing plaque buildup in the arteries and veins and it also helps to keep cholesterol within the acceptable range. Persistent high cholesterol can lead to many coronary illnesses including hypertension.

The benefits of beetroots are numerous and quite naturally more research is needed to confirm some of the preliminary findings. But at this stage we are confident that adding this miracle root to your diet can contribute to healthier days, especially for individuals who may be suffering hypertension.