We all know about superfoods like kale, quinoa, and acai berries. But have you heard about the new player in the game? The humble beet, also known as the superbeet, is starting to steal the spotlight. Move over, Walgreens, because we have a new superhero in town.
What are Superbeets?
Superbeets are not your ordinary beets. They are a specially cultivated variety that contains high levels of nitrates. These nitrates are converted to nitric oxide in the body, which helps improve blood flow, cardiovascular health, and athletic performance.
But wait, there’s more. Superbeets are also packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, folate, and manganese. These nutrients also contribute to the many health benefits of superbeets.
The Benefits of Superbeets
There are many benefits of superbeets that make it a superfood that everyone should include in their diet. Here are just a few:
Better Athletic Performance
Do you want to be a superhero in the gym or on the field? Superbeets can help with that. The nitrates in superbeets have been shown to improve exercise endurance and efficiency by increasing oxygen delivery to the muscles. This means you can work out longer and harder without feeling as fatigued.
Lower Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Superbeets contain nitrates that can help lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.
Improved Digestion
Do you suffer from digestive problems like constipation or acid reflux? Superbeets can help with that too. The fiber content in superbeets promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation. The betaine in superbeets can also help regulate stomach acid production and reduce the symptoms of acid reflux.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is the root cause of many chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Superbeets contain phytonutrients like betalains that have anti-inflammatory properties. This means that by adding superbeets to your diet, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases.
Detoxification
Superbeets contain antioxidants that can help eliminate toxins from the body. These antioxidants can help protect against cell damage and promote overall health.
How to Incorporate Superbeets into Your Diet
Now that you know about the many benefits of superbeets, you’re probably wondering how to incorporate them into your diet. Here are some ideas:
Beet Juice
Beet juice is a popular way to consume superbeets. You can make your own at home with a juicer or buy it pre-made at a local health food store. Mix it with other juices or add it to a smoothie for a nutritious boost.
Roasted Beets
Roasted beets are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. Simply roast them in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and enjoy as a side dish or added to a salad.
Beet Chips
If you’re looking for a healthy snack, try making your own beet chips. Simply slice the beets thinly, toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and bake in the oven until crispy.
Superbeet Powder
If you don’t have the time or the taste buds for fresh beets, you can still reap the benefits of superbeets with a powdered supplement. Superbeet powder can be added to smoothies, juices, or even mixed with water for a quick and convenient way to get your daily dose of superbeets.
Superbeets vs Walgreens
So, what makes superbeets better than the supplements available at Walgreens? For starters, the superbeets used in powders and supplements are specially cultivated to contain high levels of nitrates. This means that you’re getting a more potent and powerful dose of the beneficial compounds found in beets.
Secondly, superbeets are 100% all-natural and free from harmful additives and preservatives. This makes them a safer and healthier option than the supplements you’ll find at Walgreens.
Lastly, superbeets are backed by science. There are numerous studies that support the health benefits of superbeets, from reducing blood pressure to improving athletic performance. The supplements at Walgreens may make similar claims, but without the same level of scientific evidence to back them up.
A Table of Nutritional Information for Superbeets
Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup of cooked beets |
---|---|
Calories | 58 |
Carbohydrates | 13g |
Protein | 2g |
Fat | 0.2g |
Fiber | 3.8g |
Vitamin C | 11% of the RDI |
Folate | 37% of the RDI |
Potassium | 9% of the RDI |
Manganese | 8% of the RDI |
Some Fun Facts About Beets
Just in case you’re not convinced to try superbeets yet, here are some fun facts about beets:
- Beets were used in ancient times as a natural aphrodisiac.
- Beets were first cultivated in the Mediterranean region around 2000 BC.
- During the Renaissance, beets were used as a natural dye for clothing.
- Beets are high in boron, a mineral that is important for bone health and brain function.
A List of Superfoods to Add to Your Diet
If you’re looking to add more superfoods to your diet, here are some other options to consider:
- Blueberries: packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Salmon: high in omega-3 fatty acids that are important for cardiovascular health.
- Kale: a nutrient-dense leafy green with anti-cancer properties.
- Quinoa: a gluten-free grain with high protein and fiber content.
- Chia seeds: a superfood seed that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.
Final Thoughts
Superbeets may be a new kid on the block, but they’re already making a name for themselves as a superfood with many health benefits. From improving athletic performance to reducing blood pressure, there are many reasons to add superbeets to your diet.
So, Walgreens, watch out. Superbeets are here to save the day. And remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Go forth and eat your beets.
References:
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Lidder S, Webb AJ. Vascular effects of dietary nitrate (as found in green leafy vegetables and beetroot) via the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2013 Mar;75(3):677-96.
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Kapil V, Weitzberg E. Do dietary nitrate and nitrite exacerbate hypertension? J Hypertens. 2016;34(1):8-9.
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Clifford T, Howatson G, West DJ, Stevenson EJ. The Potential Benefits of Red Beetroot Supplementation in Health and Disease. Nutrients. 2015 Nov 27;7(12):2801-22.