Did you know that there are other ways of eating beets aside from your grandmother’s pickled recipe at Sunday dinner? Not only can the root be used for roasting, shaving raw for salads, pickling for Grandma’s Thanksgiving or holiday dinner, and so many other uses, but the greens can also be sauteed (with a little bit of lemon, chili flakes, olive oil, and garlic!) for the simplest, tastiest side.
Beets are incredibly tasty, they’re bright in color, and some even have candy cane patterns (hello, beautiful Chioggia beet!). Best of all, they are packed full of nutrients for a happy mind and body. Here are my top 3 favorite health benefits that you can get from adding beets to your diet:
Beets can help improve brain health
Contrary to popular belief, nitrates can actually be beneficial for your health! Beets are high in nitrates, which can help to increase oxygen and blood flow to the brain, particularly to the frontal lobe which is the area of the brain associated with working memory and decision making. An increase in blood flow to the brain can lead to an increase in cognitive function, supporting those who struggle with dementia or declining brain function.
Beets can help improve digestion
By eating just one cup of beetroot, your body is able to get about 3.5g of fiber! Fiber plays an important role for our digestive health by feeding healthy gut bacteria and preventing conditions such as IBS and constipation. By ensuring you are eating enough fiber each day, you can keep your bathroom trips regular, as well as reduce your risk of some chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and colon cancer.
Beets are nutrient dense
Not only do I love that beets can help improve both brain and digestive health, I am in awe at how nutrient dense these little guys are!
Beets contain zinc, which is important for a healthy immune system as it promotes healthy growth during early childhood, heals wounds, and correctly synthesizes DNA. They also are high in calcium, which is essential for bone strength and growth; magnesium, which is essential for immune, heart, muscle, and nerve function; and vitamin B6, which plays an important role in mood regulation as it helps to create neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
To get started growing your own beets hydroponically with the Rise Gardens system, head over to our plant collection.
Photo credits:
Natalia Fogarty and Kelsey Steeves
