How does beet juice impact blood pressure. What are the key nutrients found in beetroot juice. Can drinking beet juice improve athletic performance. How might beet juice support cognitive function. What are the potential cancer-fighting properties of beet juice. How does beet juice affect liver health. What role can beet juice play in managing cholesterol levels.

The Blood Pressure Lowering Power of Beet Juice

Beet juice has gained attention for its potential to lower blood pressure, a key factor in cardiovascular health. Research indicates that consuming about 250 milliliters (8.4 ounces) of beet juice daily can lead to reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This effect is primarily attributed to the high nitrate content in beets.

How do nitrates in beet juice lower blood pressure? Once consumed, these compounds are converted into nitric oxide in the bloodstream. Nitric oxide acts as a vasodilator, helping to relax and widen blood vessels. This improved blood flow can contribute to lower blood pressure readings.

Recommended Beet Juice Intake for Blood Pressure Management

While individual needs may vary, studies suggest that consuming 8-10 ounces of beet juice daily can be effective for blood pressure management. It’s important to note that results may vary, and beet juice should be considered as part of a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Boosting Athletic Performance with Beetroot Juice

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have turned to beet juice as a natural performance enhancer. A 2012 study revealed intriguing results regarding the impact of beet juice on athletic performance. Trained cyclists who consumed 2 cups of beet juice daily experienced notable improvements in their performance metrics.

• 10-kilometer time trial improved by approximately 12 seconds
• Reduced maximum oxygen output, indicating improved efficiency

These performance benefits are likely due to the nitrates present in beet juice. Nitrates have been shown to enhance blood flow and oxygen utilization in muscles, potentially leading to improved endurance and reduced fatigue during physical activities.

Beet Juice for Muscle Power in Heart Patients

The benefits of beet juice extend beyond healthy athletes. A 2015 study focused on individuals with heart failure and found promising results. Participants experienced a 13% increase in muscle power just 2 hours after consuming beet juice. This suggests that beet juice could potentially aid in improving physical function and quality of life for those with cardiovascular conditions.

Cognitive Function and Brain Health: The Beet Juice Connection

As we age, maintaining cognitive function becomes increasingly important. Beet juice may offer potential benefits in this area as well. A 2011 study explored the effects of a high-nitrate diet, including beet juice, on brain blood flow in older adults.

What did the study reveal about beet juice and brain function? Participants who consumed a high-nitrate diet showed increased blood flow to the frontal lobes of the brain, as evidenced by MRI scans. The frontal lobes play crucial roles in cognitive processes such as decision-making, problem-solving, and behavior regulation.

While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term impacts, these findings suggest that beet juice could potentially help slow cognitive decline and may even play a role in preventing or delaying the onset of dementia.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Key Nutrients in Beet Juice

Beet juice is not only low in calories and virtually fat-free, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients that support overall health and wellbeing. Here’s a breakdown of some key nutrients found in beet juice:

1. Betalains: Water-soluble antioxidants that give beets their vibrant color
2. Potassium: Essential for proper nerve and muscle function
3. Folate: A B vitamin crucial for fetal development and overall health
4. Iron: Important for oxygen transport in the blood
5. Magnesium: Supports bone health and numerous bodily functions
6. Manganese: Plays a role in metabolism and antioxidant function
7. Zinc: Essential for immune function and wound healing
8. Copper: Important for forming red blood cells and maintaining nerve cells
9. Selenium: A trace mineral with antioxidant properties

This nutrient profile makes beet juice an excellent addition to morning smoothies or as a standalone drink for an energy and nutritional boost to start the day.

The Cancer-Fighting Potential of Beet Juice

While more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that compounds in beet juice may have cancer-fighting properties. A 2016 study focused on betalains, the pigments responsible for beets’ deep red color, and their potential chemopreventive abilities.

How might betalains in beet juice help fight cancer? These compounds are believed to act as free radical scavengers, helping to identify and neutralize unstable cells in the body. This antioxidant action may help protect against cellular damage that can lead to cancer development.

It’s important to note that while these findings are promising, beet juice should not be considered a standalone treatment for cancer. Instead, it can be part of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that may contribute to overall health and potentially reduce cancer risk.

Liver Health and Beet Juice: A Protective Relationship

The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification and overall health. Beet juice contains compounds that may support liver function and protect against certain liver conditions.

One such compound is betaine, an antioxidant that has shown potential in preventing or reducing fatty deposits in the liver. This is particularly relevant for individuals at risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition that can result from factors such as poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to toxins, or a sedentary lifestyle.

How does betaine in beet juice support liver health?

• May help prevent accumulation of fat in the liver
• Potentially protects liver cells from toxic damage
• Could support overall liver function and detoxification processes

While beet juice can be a beneficial addition to a liver-healthy diet, it’s important to address underlying lifestyle factors and consult with a healthcare professional for comprehensive liver care.

Cholesterol Management: The Beet Juice Advantage

High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Interestingly, beet juice may offer some benefits in managing cholesterol levels. A 2011 study conducted on rats provided insights into the cholesterol-lowering potential of beetroot extract.

What were the key findings of this cholesterol study?

• Reduced total cholesterol levels
• Lowered triglyceride levels
• Increased HDL (good) cholesterol
• Reduced oxidative stress on the liver

Researchers attribute these cholesterol-modulating effects to the phytonutrients present in beets, particularly flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant properties that may help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which play roles in cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular health.

Incorporating Beet Juice into a Heart-Healthy Diet

While beet juice shows promise in supporting healthy cholesterol levels, it’s important to view it as part of a comprehensive approach to heart health. Here are some tips for incorporating beet juice into a heart-healthy diet:

1. Start with small amounts and gradually increase intake to avoid digestive discomfort
2. Combine beet juice with other heart-healthy foods like leafy greens, berries, and whole grains
3. Consider using beet juice as a base for smoothies, adding ingredients like spinach, apple, and ginger for additional nutrients and flavor
4. Remember that beet juice is concentrated in natural sugars, so moderation is key, especially for those monitoring blood sugar levels

Potential Side Effects and Considerations When Consuming Beet Juice

While beet juice offers numerous health benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and considerations. One common and harmless side effect is a condition known as beeturia, where urine and stools may turn red or pinkish after consuming beets or beet juice. This is due to the pigments in beets and is generally not a cause for concern.

Other considerations when adding beet juice to your diet include:

• Kidney stones: Beets are high in oxalates, which may contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals
• Interactions with medications: The high nitrate content in beet juice may interact with certain medications, particularly those for blood pressure or erectile dysfunction
• Blood sugar impact: Beet juice is naturally high in sugars, which may affect blood glucose levels in people with diabetes
• Temporary vocal cord paralysis: In rare cases, consuming large amounts of beet juice has been associated with this condition

Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Maximizing the Benefits of Beet Juice in Your Diet

To get the most out of beet juice, consider these tips for incorporation into your daily routine:

1. Fresh is best: Whenever possible, use fresh beets to make your juice for maximum nutrient content
2. Combine with other juices: Mix beet juice with apple, carrot, or ginger juice for added flavor and nutrients
3. Use as a pre-workout drink: Consume beet juice about 2-3 hours before exercise to potentially enhance performance
4. Add to smoothies: Incorporate beet juice into your morning smoothie for a nutrient boost
5. Try beet juice shots: For a quick and concentrated dose of nutrients, consider small “shots” of beet juice
6. Experiment with recipes: Use beet juice in salad dressings, sauces, or even as a natural food coloring in baked goods

Remember that while beet juice offers numerous potential health benefits, it should be part of a balanced diet rich in a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. The synergistic effects of a well-rounded diet are key to optimal health and wellbeing.

The Future of Beet Juice Research: What’s Next?

As interest in the health benefits of beet juice continues to grow, researchers are exploring new areas of potential impact. Some promising avenues for future research include:

• Long-term effects on cardiovascular health and blood pressure management
• Potential applications in sports medicine and athletic performance optimization
• Further investigation into cognitive benefits and neuroprotective properties
• Exploration of beet juice’s role in supporting digestive health and gut microbiome balance
• Continued study of anti-cancer properties and potential therapeutic applications
• Investigation into beet juice’s effects on inflammation and autoimmune conditions

As more studies are conducted, our understanding of beet juice’s full potential as a functional food will continue to evolve. This ongoing research may lead to new recommendations for its use in preventive health strategies and possibly even therapeutic applications.

Staying Informed About Beet Juice Benefits

To stay up-to-date on the latest findings regarding beet juice and its health benefits:

1. Follow reputable health and nutrition websites for new research updates
2. Consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized advice
3. Participate in nutrition-focused community groups or forums to share experiences and information
4. Consider subscribing to scientific journals that focus on nutrition and functional foods
5. Attend health and wellness seminars or webinars that discuss the latest in nutritional science

By staying informed, you can make the best decisions about incorporating beet juice into your diet and maximizing its potential health benefits. Remember that while beet juice shows great promise in various aspects of health, it’s always best to approach any dietary changes with a balanced perspective and in consultation with healthcare professionals.

11 Health Benefits From Blood Pressure to Cholesterol

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Ever wonder if beet juice is good for you? Beets are known to have a high nutritional value, offer liver support, and be good for weight loss. And that’s just the start.

The beet is a bulbous, sweet root vegetable that most people either love or hate. It’s not new on the block, but it’s risen to superfood status over the last decade or so.

Research shows drinking beet juice, also known as beetroot juice, may benefit your health. Here’s how.

Beet juice may help lower your blood pressure. Researchers found that people who drank 250 milliliters (or about 8.4 ounces) of beet juice daily lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Nitrates, compounds in beet juice that convert into nitric oxide in the blood and help widen and relax blood vessels, are thought to be the cause.

According to a small 2012 study, drinking beet juice increases plasma nitrate levels and boosts physical performance.

During the study, trained cyclists who drank 2 cups of beet juice daily improved their 10-kilometer time trial by approximately 12 seconds. At the same time, they also reduced their maximum oxygen output.

Results of a 2015 study suggest further benefits of the nitrates in beet juice. The study showed that people with heart failure experienced a 13 percent increase in muscle power 2 hours after drinking beet juice.

According to a 2011 study, nitrates may help increase blood flow to the brain in older people and help slow cognitive decline.

After participants consumed a high-nitrate diet that included beet juice, their brain MRIs showed increased blood flow in the frontal lobes. The frontal lobes are associated with cognitive thinking and behavior.

More studies are needed, but the potential of a high-nitrate diet to help prevent or slow dementia is promising.

Straight beet juice is low in calories and has virtually no fat. It’s a great option for your morning smoothie. It’ll give you a nutrient and energy boost as you start your day.

Beets get their rich color from betalains, which are water-soluble antioxidants. According to a 2016 study, betalains have chemo-preventive abilities against some cancer cell lines.

Betalains are thought to be free radical scavengers that help find and destroy unstable cells in the body.

Beets are a good source of potassium, a mineral and electrolyte that helps nerves and muscles function properly. Drinking beet juice in moderation can help keep your potassium levels optimal.

If potassium levels get too low, fatigue, weakness, and muscle cramps can occur. Very low potassium may lead to life threatening abnormal heart rhythms.

Your body can’t function properly without essential minerals. Some minerals boost your immune system, while others support healthy bones and teeth.

Besides potassium, beet juice provides:

• iron
• magnesium
• manganese
• sodium
• zinc
• copper
• selenium

Folate is a B vitamin that helps prevent neural tube defects, such as spinal bifida and anencephaly. It may also decrease your risk for having a premature baby.

Beet juice is a good source of folate. If you’re of childbearing age, adding folate to your diet can help you get the daily recommended amount of 600 micrograms.

You may develop a condition known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease if your liver becomes overloaded due to the following factors:

• a poor diet
• excessive alcohol consumption
• exposure to toxic substances
• sedentary lifestyle

The antioxidant betaine potentially helps prevent or reduce fatty deposits in the liver. Betaine may also help protect your liver from toxins.

If you have high cholesterol, consider adding beet juice to your diet.

A 2011 study on rats found that beetroot extract lowered total cholesterol and triglycerides and increased HDL, or “good,” cholesterol. It also reduced oxidative stress on the liver.

Researchers believe beetroot’s cholesterol-lowering potential is likely due to its phytonutrients, such as flavonoids.

Your urine and stools may turn red or pinkish after eating beets. This condition, known as beeturia, is harmless. However, it may be startling if you don’t expect it.

If you have low blood pressure, drinking beet juice regularly may increase the risk of your pressure dropping too low. Monitor your blood pressure carefully.

If you’re prone to calcium oxalate kidney stones, don’t drink beet juice. Beets are high in oxalates, which are naturally occurring substances that form crystals in your urine. They may lead to stones.

Beets are healthy no matter how you prepare them. However, juicing beets is a superior way to enjoy them because cooking beets reduces their nutritional value.

If you don’t like beet juice straight up, try adding some apple slices, mint, citrus, or a carrot to cut through the earthy taste.

If you decide to add beet juice to your diet, take it easy at first. Start by juicing half a small beet and see how your body responds. As your body adjusts, you can drink more.

Shop for beet juice online.

6 health benefits, nutrition, and how to use it

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Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

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Beetroot juice contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may improve blood pressure, protect the liver, boost athletic performance, and more.

Beetroots, or beets, have risen in popularity now that researchers have identified links between drinking beetroot juice and lowered blood pressure, reduced inflammation, and improved athletic performance.

Beetroots have an excellent nutritional profile that includes plenty of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They also contain unique bioactive compounds called betalains, which may benefit a person’s health.

People can get these benefits from consuming whole beetroots or their juice.

In this article, we look at the research behind six proposed health benefits of beetroot juice. We also cover dosage and how to make the juice at home.

Beetroot juice contains a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. Drinking this vegetable juice regularly can help prevent deficiencies in these nutrients.

A 100-milliliter (ml) serving of organic beetroot juice, which is equivalent to a small glass, contains 29 calories, no fat, and the following nutrients:

• 0.42 grams (g) of protein
• 7.50 g of carbohydrates
• 5.42 g of sugar
• 0.40 g of fiber

Beetroot juice also contains antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress, which research has linked to the development of cancer, inflammatory conditions, and heart disease.

Beetroots are a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, including:

• folate, which is important for DNA and cell health
• vitamin B-6, which supports metabolism and red blood cell production
• calcium, an essential mineral for bone growth and strength
• iron, which allows red blood cells to carry oxygen
• magnesium, a mineral that supports immune, heart, muscle, and nerve health
• manganese, which contributes to the regulation of metabolism and blood sugar levels
• phosphorous, an essential nutrient for teeth, bones, and cell repair
• copper, which plays a role in making collagen, maintaining bones and blood vessels, and supporting immune function
• zinc, which promotes wound healing, supports the immune system, and encourages normal growth

Beetroots also contain other beneficial compounds:

• Phytochemicals give plants their color and flavor. They also stimulate the immune system, minimize inflammation, and reduce oxidative stress.
• Betalains are responsible for the deep red color of beetroots. These pigments have promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitoxic properties.
• Nitrates refer to a group of organic compounds that improve blood flow and promote heart health.

A growing body of research suggests that beetroots can help lower a person’s blood pressure. Researchers believe that this is due to their nitrate content.

Beets naturally contain large quantities of nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. This compound dilates the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and lowers overall blood pressure.

In a recent study, researchers gave participants 70 ml of either nitrate-rich beetroot juice or a nitrate-depleted placebo juice. The blood pressure of those in the test group decreased by 5.2 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) more than that of those in the placebo group after just 30 minutes. However, the effect of the concentrated beetroot juice subsided within 24 hours.

Another small-scale study showed that drinking 250 ml of beetroot juice every day for 4 weeks lowered blood pressure among people with hypertension.

However, people who are already taking medication to lower their blood pressure may not notice the same benefits. The findings of a 2015 study involving people who were taking blood pressure medications revealed that nitrate-rich beetroot juice did not lower blood pressure after 1 week compared with nitrate-depleted beetroot juice.

Beetroot juice contains anti-inflammatory compounds called betalains.

According to a 2015 review, betalains inhibit specific signaling pathways that play a role in inflammatory diseases.

A 2014 study showed that a betalain called phenethylamine-betaxanthin reduced the activity of an inflammatory enzyme by 32 percent.

Share on PinterestAnemia can cause headaches and fatigue.

Beetroots are rich in iron, an essential component of red blood cells. Without iron, red blood cells cannot transport oxygen around the body.

People who have low iron levels can sometimes develop a condition called iron deficiency anemia. Adding sources of iron to the diet can reduce the risk of this condition.

The symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include:

• fatigue
• dizziness
• shortness of breath
• headaches
• rapid heartbeat

Beetroot juice contains antioxidants, vitamin A, vitamin B-6, and iron. These compounds help protect the liver from inflammation and oxidative stress while enhancing its ability to remove toxins from the body.

A recent small-scale animal study in rats with liver injury found that the rodents that received a beetroot extract had minimal liver damage in comparison with control rats.

Certain compounds in beetroot juice, such as nitrates and betalains, may improve athletic performance.

According to a 2017 systematic review, nitrates can boost a person’s athletic efficiency by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the muscles.

A 2018 study looked at the effects of betalain on 28 trained male cyclists. The cyclists received 100 mg of either beetroot concentrate or placebo every day for a week. Compared with the placebo group, the beetroot concentrate group had higher exercise efficiency and increased blood flow.

Currently, there are no official dosage recommendations for beetroot juice.

According to a 2014 study, drinking one 250-ml glass of beetroot juice per day may lower blood pressure. The juice did not cause any serious side effects, but the participants did report a change in the color of their urine.

The authors noted that the ability of beetroot juice to lower blood pressure depends on the nitrate concentration, which can vary widely among different beetroot juices. The authors recommend a concentration of 4 millimoles per liter (mmol) of nitrate to lower blood pressure in healthy adults.

Share on PinterestA person with low blood pressure should avoid drinking beetroot juice regularly.

In most cases, people can safely eat beets or drink beetroot juice without experiencing any negative side effects.

Drinking beetroot juice regularly can affect the color of urine and feces due to the natural pigments in beets. People may notice pink or purple urine, which is called beeturia, and pink or purple feces. These color changes are temporary and not a cause for concern.

The nitrates in beetroot juice affect blood pressure. Anyone who has low blood pressure or is currently taking blood pressure medication should speak with a healthcare professional before adding beets or beetroot juice to their diet.

Beets contain high levels of oxalates, which can cause kidney stones in people with a high risk of this condition.

People can make beetroot juice at home using a juicer, blender, or food processor.

How to prepare the beets:

1. Trim the tops off the beets before washing them thoroughly. Leave the beetroot skin intact for extra nutrients.
2. Chop the beets into small pieces.

How to juice the beets:

1. Set up a juicer with a bowl or pitcher in position to catch discarded material.
2. Feed the beetroot pieces into the juicer one at a time.
3. Pour the beetroot juice into a glass, and immediately drink it or place it in the refrigerator to chill.

How to blend the beets:

1. Place the beetroot pieces into the blender, and add a splash of water to help soften up the beetroot.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Remove large chunks from the juice using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer.
4. Discard the pulp and pour the beetroot juice into a glass. Chill it in the refrigerator or serve it straight away.

People can drink beetroot juice on its own, or they can blend it with the juice of other fruits and vegetables.

The following healthful ingredients can add a flavorful twist:

• citrus fruits
• apple
• carrot
• cucumber
• ginger
• mint
• basil
• honey

People can also buy beetroot juice from their local grocery store or choose between brands online.

It is important to check the nutrition label on products and avoid juices that contain added sugars and preservatives.

Beetroots are a healthful addition to most diets. People can experience the health benefits of beetroots by eating them raw or cooked or by drinking beetroot juice. Juiced beets contain many beneficial nutrients that the cooking process can remove.

Beetroot juice and nitrates to reduce blood pressure – Federal State Budgetary Institution “NMITs TPM” of the Ministry of Health of Russia

approximately 6.4 mmol/day) reduces elevated blood pressure compared with placebo in hypertensive patients for 4 weeks. Criteria for inclusion and exclusion of patients in the study are presented on the website.

Measurement of systolic and diastolic BP was performed in the clinic at the doctor’s office, at home (independently) and during ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. The table shows the dynamics of blood pressure indicators

After 4 weeks, the investigators also observed an improvement in endothelial function (p<0.001) and a decrease in arterial stiffness (p<0. 01) in the treatment group compared to the placebo group. The authors attribute the action of beetroot juice to the presence of inorganic dietary nitrates in it, which have vasodilating and blood circulation-improving effects. According to the study, the use of beet juice resulted in an approximately 5.5-fold increase in plasma nitrate concentrations, and an approximately 2.7-fold increase in plasma nitrite concentrations compared to baseline.
The magnitude of the BP reduction corresponded to the level of BP reduction that is achieved with the use of an antihypertensive drug at a standard dose.

Kapil V, Khambata RS, Robertson A, et al. Dietary nitrate provides sustained blood pressure lowering in hypertensive patients: A randomized, phase 2, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Hypertension 2014; DOI: 10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.114.04675. Abstract

Comments. It should be noted that the study (as follows from the description of the inclusion criteria presented on the site) included patients with hypertension not higher than 159/99 (taking and not taking antihypertensive drugs), without any concomitant diseases and without damage to target organs. It is with this AD that alternative treatments and lifestyle measures (physical activity, reduced salt intake) have been shown in a number of other studies to give an effect close to that indicated in this study. Of course, the presented method of treatment cannot be considered an alternative to the generally accepted recommendations for the management of patients with hypertension, as the authors of the study themselves say. Both the treatment itself (beetroot juice containing nitrates) and the explanations for the hypotensive effect look unusual. At the moment, the publication is more interesting as information “in the world of the interesting” than as a practical recommendation for doctors and patients.

Which food will help lower blood pressure?

According to a study by scientists from Queen Mary University of London, UK, one glass of beetroot juice per day is enough to significantly reduce high blood pressure in patients with hypertension. The results of the study were published in the journal Hypertension.

Beets and leafy vegetables (lettuce and cabbage) contain large amounts of inorganic nitrates. In the human body, inorganic nitrates are converted to nitric oxide, which relaxes and dilates blood vessels.

This study involved 64 patients with hypertension aged 18-85 years. In half of the participants, taking antihypertensive drugs did not contribute to lowering blood pressure to normal levels, the other half of the participants did not take these drugs. Patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups: group 1 – daily consumed 1 glass (250 ml) of sugar beet juice containing inorganic nitrates, group 2 – 1 glass of beetroot without nitrates (placebo). All participants consumed beetroot juice for 4 weeks. Their health status was also assessed by scientists within 2 weeks before the start of the study and 2 weeks after it ended.

Results showed that participants who consumed beetroot juice with inorganic nitrates experienced an 8 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure. Art. and diastolic – by 4 mm Hg. Art. Two weeks after stopping beetroot juice, the blood pressure levels of these participants returned to their previous levels. In evaluating the significance of the results obtained, scientists note that the results of large observational studies show that a decrease in high blood pressure for every 2 mm Hg. Art. helps to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases by 7%, and stroke by 10%.

In addition, participants who consumed beetroot juice with inorganic nitrates showed an improvement in blood vessel dilation (by 20%), as well as a decrease in arterial stiffness by about 10%. Scientists note that such improvements help reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. It should be noted that there were no changes in blood pressure or cardiovascular status in the placebo group.

Drinking beetroot juice or inorganic nitrates from other foods may be an easy way to normalize high blood pressure in hypertensive patients, scientists say.