The nutritionist says you need an equivalent of 2 cups of beet to meet your body’s daily nitrate requirements. Organic beet juice is quite common. How else can you get all the nitrates your body needs without having to stuff your face with beets?
Beetroot has been praised as a functional superfood ideal for everyone regardless of their age or gender. Now that there are lots of companies selling it in powder and juice powder form, what are the overall benefits of powdered beets?
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Organic Beet Powder
Beet powder is the product of dehydrated and then ground beets. You can purchase the powder or make it yourself.
How to Make Beet Powder
1. Cut the beets into thin slices
Thinner slices will allow for a more fine powder.
2. Place the slices in a dehydrator
Set the temperature to 105 degrees and leave them overnight. Alternatively, use a convection oven or dry them in the sun. Be sure to cover them with a mesh to keep insects away.
3. Grind them in a food processor
Once they are completely dehydrated, grind them in a powerful food processor or in a coffee grinder.
Organic Beet Powder Benefits
Immune Booster: One common use of beet powder is as the main ingredient in daily immune booster drinks taken by people recovering from illness or anyone with a compromised immunity. Beets contain a variety of nutrients, but the one directly responsible for strengthening the immune system is vitamin C.It helps in manufacture of white blood cells whose main function is to fight infections. It is also a powerful antioxidant. A body filled with toxins cannot fight off infections effectively.
Detoxification Drink: The function of the liver is to filter blood coming from the digestive tract. It also removes toxins (detoxification) from chemicals contained in food. Betaine contained in beets help the liver in its detoxification work while pectin, also contained in beets, prevents toxins removed from being reincorporated into the body.
Organic Beet Juice
Juicing of fruits and vegetables is a great way to consume large quantities at a go because it takes a lot of vegetables to make one glass of juice. Nutrients from juices are absorbed faster than whole vegetables. This is why juicing is preferred by beet consumers who need to reap from their benefits with specific time frames in mind.
Organic Beet Juice Health Benefits
Lower Blood Pressure: Beets contain high levels of nitrates which when consumed are converted into nitric oxide. This compound is a natural dilator which widens blood vessels and helps to lower blood pressure. Beet juice is especially useful for people suffering from hypertension. One cup of beet juice can decrease blood pressure by about 10 mm Hg. The biggest drop is observed 3 to 6 hours after drinking the juice. Dietary nitric oxide maintains blood pressure levels low for only a few hours though consistent consumption of beets has been known to stabilize blood pressure permanently.
Improved Athletic Performance: Athletes are now leaning more towards nutrient dense foods rather than drugs for improved performance. Nitrates in beets help to increase blood flow and oxygen supply to cells by causing widening (vasodilation) of blood vessels. Nitrates also contribute to more efficient use of oxygen by cells, which is essential in high-endurance activities.
Studies to prove the benefits of beet juice on athletic performance have been conducted in various sports such as running, swimming, power walking and cycling. Results show that beet consumption can improve performance by up to 16%. These effects on the body’s ability to perform better are seen 3 to four hours after consuming the drink so athletes typically drink 2 to 3 glasses of beet juice before a race.
Organic Beet Juice Powder
This is a juice powder made from dehydrated beets and pure beet juice. It can be mixed with water, smoothies or juices. It has a natural sweet taste and gives drinks a red or pink color.
Organic Beet Juice Powder Health Benefits
Healthy, glowing Skin: Beet juice powder contains betaine which is a natural antioxidant. It helps to purify blood and rid it of toxins. When your body is free of toxins, it is evident on your skin because you are unlikely to develop acne.Your skin becomes smooth and supple. Vitamin C, also contained in beets helps to clear blemishes on the skin and give it an even tone.
Boost Brain Health: Beets are great for good brain health, especially when combined with regular exercise because they are rich in nitrates. Nitrates help to widen blood vessels which improves circulation and oxygen supply to the brain and other parts of the body. This helps reduce the chances of conditions like Alzheimer’s diseasewhich are associated with reduced supply of oxygen to the brain.
Final Word
Powdered beets and organic beet juiceare a sure way to get your daily dose of dietary nitrates and host of vitamins and minerals. They are very preferred because they are easily and quickly absorbed into the system and can be slowly and conveniently sipped in the course of the day. The key disadvantage of juiced and powdered beets is that it lacks fibre. Fibre in fruits and vegetables is what makes you feel full when you eat them. It is also essential for proper digestion.
FAQ
Is beet juice good for diabetics?
Yes it is. Although beets are sweet, they are fine for diabetics because they do not cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels.
How fast does beet juice work as an energy booster?
Nitric oxide levels in the blood peak 2 to 3 hours after consuming beet juice.
What is the best time to drink beet juice for general health and wellness?
Nutritionists recommend that you get a good dose of beet juice early in the morning. You get all the benefits of beet juice if you drink it at least one hour before breakfast.
Will my early morning beet juice be fine to drink in the evening?
Always refrigerate freshly made beet juice. It will keep for about 48 hours as long as it remains in the fridge.
How long can I keep beet powder?
It can last 2 to 3 years as long as it is properly stored. It should be stored in a sealed plastic bag, away from moisture.
