Beets are an often overlooked vegetable, but they are packed with nutrition and have numerous health benefits. Perhaps the most significant benefit of beets is their ability to lower blood pressure. This is due to the high nitrate content in beets, which is converted into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps to relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing the strain on the heart. This leads to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

In addition to their blood pressure-lowering effects, beets also offer a range of other health benefits.

Here are 7 additional reasons to add beets to your diet:

1. Rich in antioxidants: Beets are a good source of antioxidants, which protect the body against cellular damage and help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.1

   
   

2. Boosts athletic performance: The nitrates in beets have been shown to improve athletic performance by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the muscles.2

   
   

3. Supports liver health: Beets contain betalains, a type of pigment that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects on the liver.3

   
   

4. Supports gut health: Beets are high in fiber and prebiotics, which help to promote a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestive function.4

   
   

5. Promotes brain health: Beets contain high levels of nitrates, which have been shown to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.5

   
   

6. May help with weight management: Beets are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent food for weight management. The fiber in beets can help to keep you feeling full and reduce overall calorie intake.6

   
   

7. Good for skin health: The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in beets have been shown to improve skin health and reduce the risk of skin damage from UV radiation.

These are just a few of the many health benefits of beets. To get the most out of beets, it's best to eat them raw or lightly cooked to preserve their nutrients. They can be added to salads, smoothies, or roasted as a side dish.7