PHOTOGRAPH: STOCKSY
There’s no mistaking the distinct, deep purple, finger-staining juice of the hearty beetroot, which makes this vibrant vegetable one of the most beneficial plant foods you can eat. Beets boast that characteristic earthy-rich and sumptuous flavour, and are often referred to as ‘blood-building’ foods – and for very good reasons.
Brimming with heart-friendly nutrients, such as folate and potassium, it is the unique natural source of nitrates (which converts into nitric oxide in the body) that makes beetroot so supportive to our systems. It is this compound that helps to dilate blood vessels, which in turn improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. The juice has, in fact, been used in trials with athletes to improve performance, and it makes a great pre-workout boost – beets are also a decent source of iron and magnesium, both of which are important minerals to keep our energy levels well-balanced.