Food Spotlight: Beetroot

Beetroot is the superstar among healthy foods in recent years. And justly so. It contains many essential minerals and vitamins that our bodies need on a daily basis.

Beetroot is rich in potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium. It is also a good source of vitamin A, B and C.

Beetroot’s superpowers

Beetroot contains the following:

• Iron, which is good for tiredness and anemia.
• Folic acid B8 (biotin) may help production of insulin.
• Betaine, which is a nutrient that plays an important role in the health of the cardiovascular system and reduces heart disease and stroke.
• Zinc enzyme may help protect against fatty deposits in the liver.
• Dimethylglycine (also known as DMG) may prevent heart disease and stroke, and also helps people cope with depression, anxiety, and stress.
• High in fiber and antioxidant properties.

The Romans used beetroot as a treatment for constipation and fevers, among other ailments.  Researchers have found that drinking beetroot juice everyday can significantly lower blood pressure. Beetroot has high nitrate content that might be converted to nitric oxide by bacteria in saliva., and the chemical could dilate blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. Drinking beetroot juice before meals can improve gallstone.