Beets have stamped history dating back to Ancient Rome and Greek Mythology. The average beet contains 20 times more "miracle molecules" (or dietary nitrates) than any other vegetable, yet what is most remarkable is the striking and unusual mix of antioxidants they contain. The performance related benefits of beets are unparalleled. Using oxygen more efficiently, increasing blood flow, and enhancing blood vessel dilation, are just a few ways beets can help increase power, extend endurance, quicken speed, reduce pain, and shorten muscle recovery.

Nutritional highlights

1. Performance Boosting 

A study published in the Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise revealed that beetroot juice helped improve cyclists time trial performance. Cyclists who drank beetroot juice before riding in a simulated competition managed to shave valuable seconds off their time. The performance enhancing properties are thought to be caused by the high levels of nitrate. Further research suggests that nitric acid helps increase blood flow throughout the body and lowers blood pressure.  

2. Cancer Fighting Properties

Beets contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that studies have shown may help reduce the risk of some cancers. Betacyanin, the pigmentation in beets that gives them their bright red coloring, is also thought to defend cells against carcinogens.  

3. Detoxification Support

The betalin pigments in beets are also said to support your body's detoxification process, helping to break down toxins and excrete them from your body. They are particularly beneficial for purifying your blood and liver.

4. Natural Source of Folate

Beets are a great source of natural folate for the body. Folate, or vitamin B-9, is used by the body to make DNA and other genetic material. It supports reproductive health, the cardiovascular system, the brain and assists with cell & tissue growth and repair. Folate is particularly important for pregnant women as folate helps reduce the risk of birth defects.

5. Immune Boosting and Rich in Fiber

Beets are high in immune-boosting vitamin C and dietary fiber which promotes the health of your gut. Beets also contain essential minerals like potassium, which is essential for nerve and muscle function, and manganese, which is needed to develop connective tissue, bones, blood clotting factors & sex hormones. Manganese also plays an important role in calcium absorption, blood sugar regulation and the metabolism of fat and carbohydrate.  

For obvious reasons Mod_e has created a product that takes advantage of all these amazing health benefits. Our pre-workout juice Beet_em makes it easy for you to incorporate beets into your diet and daily training routine. Enjoy!  

References

Lansley KE, Winyard PG, Bailey SJ, Vanhatalo A, Wilkerson DP, Blackwell JR, Gilchrist M, Benjamin N, Jones AM. Acute Dietary Nitrate Supplementation Improves Cycling Time Trial Performance

Larsen FJ, Ekblom B, Sahlin K, Lundberg JO, Weitzberg E. Effects of dietary nitrate on blood pressure in healthy volunteers. N Engl J Med 2006;355:2792–3.