Posted by Danielle Caster on 11-26-2024
My first memory of beets is from the salad bar at restaurants as a child. You can probably picture them now, either sliced or shredded slimy looking things, sitting next to the cottage cheese. Who wants to eat that? Not me. I am not a picky eater, but I wanted nothing to do with beets. So without ever tasting them, I decided I didn’t like them as a child and never looked back.
That was until 2020, when I found some extra time on my hands and I channeled my inner Dwight Schrute and decided to plant some beets in my garden and become a beet “farmer”. Of course, if you are going to grow beets, you are going to have to taste those beets, right? So, I made a roasted beet salad, roasting the root of the beets in the oven, chopping up the beet greens, and making a balsamic vinaigrette dressing to go with it. Guess what? It was delicious! Beets straight out of the garden were so tasty and way more appealing than those slimy salad bar ones from my childhood.
Through my journey with herbalism and exploration, I discovered not only a newfound love for beets but also an appreciation for their incredible nutritional value, inspiring me to incorporate them into my diet more regularly.
What Are The Benefits of Beet Root?
The entire plant of the beet is nutritious and edible, but where we see the highest concentration of those beneficial nutrients is in the root of the plant.
Beet root is rich in a number of phytonutrients which may help support many of the body's functions.
Some of the phytonutrients you can find in beet root include: potassium, sodium, iron, zinc, copper, vitamin c, manganese, folate, nitrates, amino acids, polyphenols, antioxidants and flavonoids.
Cardiovascular Support
Beet root contains dietary nitrates which may play a role in supporting healthy blood pressure levels and avert oxidative stress. Studies have shown that this may lead to reduced risks of severe health conditions related to the cardiovascular system.
Another compound found in beet root is an antioxidant called belalain. This plant nutrient may also help reduce oxidative and nitrative stress in the body. Oxidative and nitrative stress comes from the presence of reactive oxygen or nitrogen species in the body. These chemicals can cause damage to cells and DNA, which can then trigger an inflammatory response in the body. Researchers say that antioxidants, such as betalain, search for free radicals in the body that can cause damage and counter their effects. They also help cells defend themselves from stressors.
Beet root is also rich in iron, incorporating beet root can help support healthy levels of iron in our blood.
Supports the Liver and Detoxification Channels In The Body
Beet root powder is made from the root of the beet plant which is dried and then ground into a powder. So when you consume beet root powder you are consuming the whole plant which includes the fiber. This fiber, along with antioxidants and other essential minerals help to clear out stagnation in the liver and keep the detoxifications channels flowing.
Gut Health
A 2020 study found that beet root contains bioactive compounds that may aid gastrointestinal health, balance gut microbiota, and enhance the metabolism and growth of probiotics. Choosing beetroot powder over beet juice can be even more beneficial, as it retains all the fiber from the beets.
Athletic Performance And Muscle Soreness
According to a study done in 2021, the nitrates in beet root powder may help support improved athletic performance and reduce muscle soreness after workouts. Nitrate levels peak within 2-3 hours of consuming beet root, therefore it is recommended to consume beet root powder a couple hours before or after workouts to maximize their potential benefits.
Cognitive Health
One of the minerals that seems to be particularly high in beet root is copper. Copper is an important mineral that our bodies require for energy production and is an important essential nutrient for the brain and neurotransmitters. The nitrates in beet root may also support cognitive function by improving blood flow to the brain.
As you can see, there are many ways that beet root can help contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Adding beet root to your daily routine is quick and easy when you use a certified organic beet root powder. It is versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of different recipes. If you are looking to add beet root to your daily routine, check out our blog post with 6 Beet Root Recipes to get you started.
Where can you source high quality organic beet root?
Here at Starwest Botanicals, we provide high quality certified organic beet root Powder for your convenience. When ordering herbs from Starwest Botanicals you can fully trust the product you are receiving is high quality. Shop Beet Root Powder with confidence and peace of mind today. Are you looking to add Beet Root Powder to your business? Apply for a wholesale account here to save 40% on retail prices.
Bio
Danielle Caster is a Clinical Herbalist who uses her knowledge of herbalism along with a holistic approach to support women in achieving a more embodied way of living.
Danielle specializes in Women’s Reproductive & Hormone Health from Preconception through Menopause, and everything in between.
Through one on one Herbal Wellness Sessions, Danielle curates custom holistic protocols for her clients, addressing the root cause and restoring balance to the body.
A mother of three and avid gardener. Danielle also enjoys growing a multitude of medicinal plants and vegetables, spending time with her family, traveling and reading.
For more information about working with Danielle please visit her website or follow her on Instagram.