Beets, those deep magenta wonders, are not only a colorful addition to your plate but also a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a place in your health and fitness routine.
I started eating beets again about 10 years ago. I was on a hiatus from beets since childhood until then. My parents fed us squishy canned beets without any seasoning. No wonder I swore off beets for such a long time! I just needed to learn how to roast fresh beets at home to enjoy the wonderful taste as well as the numerous health benefits.
The amazing health benefits of beets
Beets, or beetroots, are full of the good stuff: fiber, folate, potassium, manganese, iron, vitamin C, antioxidants, and nitrates.
Beets are a serious must-have for anyone who's serious about their well-being.
This vibrant vegetable's nutrients help to strengthen the immune system, provide healthy muscle function, and improved bone strength.
The secret behind beets' popularity among athletes lies in their high nitrate content
When eaten, nitrates convert to nitric oxide, which enhances blood flow, oxygen delivery, and energy production in the body. This leads to better endurance, faster recovery, and an overall improvement in athletic performance.
The antioxidants in beets help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Beets are also an excellent source of fiber, which is great for digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer. This can help with weight management.
Ideas for how to eat more beets
Shred fresh beets and add to a salad.
I add roasted beets to my goat cheese, avocado salad. Simply roast on a cookie sheet with some olive oil and seasonings at 325 degrees for about 30 minutes.
One of my favorites is beet pesto! Roast your beets and throw them into a food processor with almonds, olive, oil, parmesan cheese, and a little lemon, then serve over your favorite chickpea or lentil pasta. You can even add traditional basil to this mix. The taste is out of this world.
Or try this Beet Root Smoothie recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 small beet, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries
- 1 small banana, peeled
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup almond milk or milk of choice
- 1 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
In a high-speed blender, add the chopped beet, frozen mixed berries, banana, baby spinach, Greek yogurt, and almond milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Adjust the thickness by adding more liquid if the mixture is too thick.
Beets are versatile and nutrient-dense, providing amazing health benefits. Add a beautiful burst of color to your meals and give your body a significant boost in nutrition with beets!
Cheers to better health with beets!
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