We got the Beets!
For some of us beets are not an appealing veggie. A few of my friends really don’t like them because to them they taste too earthy.
I'm lucky as I happen to like beets and I always try to look for ways to incorporate them into my diet as they are so easy to make. I never peel them, which makes it super quick: I simply wash them, chop the ends, slightly massage them with olive oil and wrap them in foil. The oven does the rest: 400F for at around 1 hour for the big ones. Once cooked I start thinking of creative ways to serve them.
When I am in my detox mode, I also juice them, which I admit it’s pretty hard core, even if you mix it with orange juice and add some mint leaves. However, I love them and even more I love their super powerful antioxidant properties.
Beets are a great source of oxygen and are particularly good before exercising.
Why are beets so special?
First thing first, as I mentioned before, the keyword is antioxidants! The betalains contained in beets are a health boon, in fact they are filled with compounds that protect cells from free radicals’ damage: read anti-aging. They also lower the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Second, they have incredible anti-inflammatory properties, hence lowering the risk of type-2 diabetes, but also high blood pressure and obesity.
There is more! Beets are filled with fiber and can help you control the level of sugar in your blood, but also maintain a healthy weight.
They are loaded with vitamins, such as folate and vitamin B, but also potassium, magnesium and vitamin C.
And they are particularly great for exercising. In fact, I load up on beets in different ways before going on a run or doing any strength, cardio exercise, as they contain nitrates which help your blood vessels expand allowing for more oxygen to reach your brain and muscles faster.
Two things to be aware of: first, your pee and poo may turn purple, if that happens don’t worry, it’s just the beets; second, if you are prone to kidney stones, consume them moderately. Other than that you should consider add them to your diet at least a couple of times a month. Here are 2 great and easy dip recipes: Egyptian beetroot dip and the Beetroot Hummus.
And since beets are great for exercise why not add them to an electrolyte solution and that’s what Cure did in their Berry Pomegranate and Beets drink.
Try it and let us know what you think!
