eating beets can do to your body

What eating beets can do to your body

1. Lower blood pressure
Beets are rich in dietary nitrates, which your body converts into nitric oxide. This helps blood vessels relax and widen, improving blood flow and often reducing blood pressure, especially in people with hypertension.

2. Improve exercise performance
Those same nitrates can increase oxygen efficiency. Many people notice better endurance and stamina, which is why beet juice is popular with athletes.

3. Support heart health
Beets contain betalains and other antioxidants that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both linked to cardiovascular disease.

4. Aid digestion
They’re high in fiber, which supports gut health, regular bowel movements, and healthy gut bacteria.

5. Support brain function
Improved blood flow may also enhance circulation to the brain, which can help with cognitive function, especially as we age.

6. Provide key nutrients
Beets are a good source of:

Folate (important for cell growth)
Potassium (heart and muscle function)
Iron (non-heme)
Vitamin C

The surprising (but harmless) effects

Red or pink urine and stools (beeturia)
This can look alarming but is completely harmless and happens in some people due to how they metabolize beet pigments.

Temporary staining
Beets can stain teeth, hands, and cutting boards very easily.

Possible downsides (for some people)

Kidney stones risk
Beets are high in oxalates, which may contribute to kidney stones in susceptible individuals.

Blood pressure may drop too low
If you already have low blood pressure or are on BP medication, large amounts could make you feel lightheaded.

Digestive discomfort
Eating a lot at once may cause bloating or stomach upset in sensitive people.

Bottom line

Doctors generally agree that beets are very healthy for most people, especially for heart health and circulation. The key is moderation and awareness of personal conditions like kidney stone history or blood pressure issues.

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