Why drinking beetroot juice is a healthy habit

When it comes to healthy food habits, we often talk about eating fruits and vegetables, and experts also suggest avoiding juices. But, as per a new study drinking beetroot juice promotes a mix of mouth bacteria associated with healthier blood vessels and brain function. (Image: istock)

As per a study published in the journal 'Redox Biology', beetroot - and other foods including lettuce, spinach, and celery - are rich in inorganic nitrate, and many oral bacteria play a role in turning nitrate into nitric oxide, which helps to regulate blood vessels and neurotransmission (chemical messages in the brain). The study highlights that older people tend to have lower nitric oxide production, and this is associated with poorer vascular (blood vessel) and cognitive (brain) health. In the new study, by the University of Exeter, 26 healthy older people took part in two ten-day supplementation periods: one with nitrate-rich beetroot juice and another with nitrate-free placebo juice, which they drank twice a day. (Image: istock)

The results showed higher levels of bacteria associated with good vascular and cognitive health, and lower levels of bacteria linked to disease and inflammation. Systolic blood pressure dropped on average by five points (mmHg) after drinking the beetroot juice.(Image: istock)

"We are really excited about these findings, which have important implications for healthy ageing," said lead author Professor Anni Vanhatalo, of the University of Exeter. "Previous studies have compared the oral bacteria of young and older people, and healthy people compared to those with diseases, but ours is the first to test nitrate-rich diet in this way," added Vanhatalo. Vanhatalo further noted, "Our findings suggest that adding nitrate-rich foods to the diet - in this case via beetroot juice - for just ten days can substantially alter the oral microbiome (mix of bacteria) for the better. Maintaining this healthy oral microbiome in the long term might slow down the negative vascular and cognitive changes associated with ageing."(Image: istock)

Take 2 medium beetroot, peel, and chop into small cubes. Also, peel and chop 1-inch length piece of fresh ginger. Add them together in a blender and blend to a smooth puree. Add water to adjust the consistency. Garnish with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Enjoy!(Image: istock)

In a nutshell, it is all about eating and drinking healthy to keep the body mechanism smooth and effective functioning. Eat healthy, live healthy! (Image: istock)

Inputs from ANI

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