Beetroot, commonly known as beetroot, is a nutritious vegetable known for its wonderful color and taste. Beetroot has been used in various cuisines for centuries and is known for its benefits. But like all foods, beets can have some side effects. In this article, we will elaborate on the health benefits and possible side effects of beetroot.
Nutrients of Beetroot
Beets are rich in many important vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It contains vitamin C, iron, folate, magnesium, potassium, and nitrates. Consumption of beetroot not only increases energy, but the antioxidants present in it protect the body from diseases.
Benefits of Beetroot
- Heart Health:Nitrates in beets help dilate blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and improves heart health.
- Increase in energy:Beetroot juice increases energy levels during exercise and increases muscle strength. It is considered as the best supplement for athletes.
- Improves Digestive System:The fiber in beetroot improves digestion and relieves constipation.
- Treatment of Anemia:Beetroot is very effective in treating iron deficiency anemia.
- Skin Health: Use of beetroot keeps the skin clear, bright and youthful. Antioxidants in it reduce wrinkles.
- Cancer Protection: Antioxidants and beta-cyanin present in beets reduce the risk of cancer.
- Mental health: The folate in beets is beneficial for mental health and improves memory.
- Reduces swelling: Antioxidants in beetroot reduce swelling in the body.
- Liver Health: Beetroot helps in cleansing the liver and removes toxins from the body.
- Weight Loss: Beetroot is helpful in weight loss as it is low in calories and makes you feel full.
- Eye health: Beta-carotene in beets is beneficial for eye health and improves vision.
- Useful during pregnancy: Beetroot is very useful for pregnant women as the folate present in it helps in the development of the baby.
- Useful in diabetes: Beetroot has a low glycemic index, which makes it useful for diabetics.
- Bone strength: The calcium in beetroot is important for bone strength.
- Hair Health: Beetroot juice makes hair strong and shiny.
Side Effects of Beetroot
- Iron overload: The high iron content in beetroot can be harmful for some people who suffer from iron overload diseases.
- Bladder problems: Nitrates in beets can cause bladder stones in some people.
- Urine Color: High consumption of beets can change the color of urine, which may cause concern for some people.
- Lowering blood pressure: Beetroot consumption lowers blood pressure, which can be a problem for people with low blood pressure.
- Allergies: Some people may be allergic to beets, which may cause itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Calcium deficiency in the body: The oxalates present in beets can cause calcium deficiency in the body.
- Digestive problems: For some people, consuming too much beetroot can cause digestive problems such as gas, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
- Caution for children: Care should be taken when giving beetroot juice to young children as the nitrates in it can be harmful to them.
The result
Beetroot has many health benefits but one should be aware of possible side effects while using it. If used in moderation, its benefits are more and harms are less. If you suffer from any particular disease or condition, be sure to consult your physician before using beetroot.