Beets are a rich source of several nutrients, including folate, potassium, vitamin C and dietary fiber. In addition, it contains phytonutrients called betalains, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Evidence indicates that incorporating beet juice into your daily diet can be effective for reducing blood pressure.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure refers to the force it takes to move blood through artery walls. Although blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day depending on food intake and exercise, chronic high blood pressure can cause inflammation of your blood vessels, which disrupts blood and nutrient flow to vital organs such as the heart. High blood pressure is often called the silent disease, since no symptoms appear until blood pressure is dangerously high, according to the Mayo Clinic. Drinking beet juice daily might lower blood pressure.
Nitrites
According to Science Daily, researchers at Barts and the London School of Medicine examined the impact of beet juice on blood pressure in healthy volunteers. Subjects consumed 500 ml of beetroot juice and experienced decreases in blood pressure one hour after ingestion and the highest drop in blood pressure after three hours. In addition, some participants continued to experienced reductions in blood pressure 24 hours after ingestion. Scientists stated that nitrites found in beets increase nitric oxide production, which widens blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.
Beetroot Juice
Similar results were also found in another study conducted by scientists at Queen Mary University of London. They reported in the August 2010 issue of "Hypertension" that healthy volunteers consuming 250 ml of beetroot juice experienced reductions in blood pressure compared with those who drank water.
Dosage
Drinking 250 to 500 ml of beet juice seems to be effective in lowering blood pressure. However, keep in mind that further research is needed regarding the long-term effects of beet juice on blood pressure. Moreover, if you are taking blood pressure medications, consult your health care provider before consuming beet juice.
