Beetroot is an all natural, dark red root vegetable, that can help lower blood pressure, improve endurance and boost brain health. They belong to the Chenopodiaceae family and fall under the Beta vulgaris species.
Interestingly, these vegetables have various benefits, including decreasing blood pressure levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular incidences, improving physical performance, endurance, and stamina, helping ease digestive issues or complaints, improving brain health and cognitive functioning, and aiding in weight loss due to its nutrition and low calorie content.
Best Beetroot
1. Organifi Red Juice
Overall, Organifi Red Juice provides 11 superfoods in its formula including: Acai, Beets, Ginseng, and blueberries among others. Those looking for a multi-purpose supplement will find a great deal of benefits from this option. Organifi’s beet supplement also provides consumers with a more natural and organic option that some of the other products available.
With 2 different size options, consumers can buy this amazing option in bulk for long-term usage. For these reasons, it’s our #1 pick.
2. Ora Renewable Energy
With their plant-based formula, Ora has introduced a beet option that is even more ideal for those who may prefer a vegan or vegetarian option. Designed primarily with pre-workout readiness in mind, this supplement is also accompanied by nitric oxide for increased beetroot potency, matcha and green coffee beans for more energy, and coconut water for any necessary electrolytes.
As it is USDA certified, you can take this supplement with no fear of artificial ingredients or flavoring. With 20 servings per container, consumers will be certain to get a lot of use out of their order.
3. HumanN BeetElite
For those looking for a supplement specifically designed for athletic performance, HumaNBeetElite, is more than likely the best choice. Unlike other beet supplements, BeetElite contains a much more substantial amount of beet extract. Bringing with it the equivalent of 6 whole beets, it also has a sugar-free element.
Additionally, the company itself is highly-rated and touts a natural and more organic focus.
4. Havasu Beet Root Powder +
There are many strong candidates out there for those looking to improve their exercise performance and endurance. Havasu’s Beet Root Powder is a superb contender for your attention.
It combines normal ingredients with such as beet root and Stevia extract with cordyceps mushrooms. Though it may sound a bit strange, this serves to increase aerobic performance substantially. For those looking for the purest option possible, this may not be a fit, but for those looking for a pre or post exercise supplement, this may be just the thing you need.
5. HumanN SuperBeets
Made by the same manufacturers HumaN BeetElite, the HumanN SuperBeets brings a new element to the table. Unlike its counterpart, this option focuses on energy enhancing ingredients.
With 80mg of plant-based caffeine from green tea extract, consumers will be able to find a smooth powder to add to their morning breakfast or coffee. The manufacturer also touts a GMO free and organic brand which should provide some comfort for those concerned about potency
6. NatureVibe Botanicals Beet Root Powder
This raw beet root powder by Naturevibe Bontanicals offer a great number of benefits from a small company. Though Naturevibe is not a supplement juggernaut, they are still extremely reliable and highly rated.
Available in 3 separate package sizing options, consumers can choose what is not only best for their pocket books but also what will fit their needs at the time. As goals often change, this will be a great benefit for those who may be looking for a change in the supplement regimen.
7. VivaDeo Pure Beets
Completely organic and purely made of beets, Havasu has created a supplement powder designed simply with beets and nothing else. While this may not seem appealing at first, it provides a great option for those who want to avoid any additional ingredients.
The organic source used to create this supplement meant that no pesticides or herbicides were used during the creation of the formula. One of the most substantial benefits with this particular supplement is its purity. This enhances potency and also ensures a lower calorie count than other available choices.
8. Nature’s Way Beet Root
Made by a top brand in the natural healthcare and supplement market, Nature’s Way Beet Root easily lives up to the reputation of other supplements in this field.
Among its most notable quality is its use of capsules. Similar to a few other beet supplements, the capsules are vegan-friendly and still provide the same benefits of other beet root options. There is also an added dose of purity here. Though it comes in a capsule, the outer coating is plant-based and the ingredient list will only show beets – nothing else.
9. BulkSupplements Beet Root Powder
Though beet root is a great performance enhance for athletes when paired with protein or other vitamins, Bulk Supplements has chosen to go with a clean and pure powder formula. Ingredients only include beets, and there is no trace of soy, dairy, artificial flavors, or colors.
For those just trying out the beet root supplement, Bulk Supplements allows for smaller bags which will allow you to become comfortable prior to making the more expensive purchase amid the big leap.
10. Zhou Nutrition N.O. Pro
While other beet root options come in a powder form, Zhou Nutrition has opted to provide an alternative capsule version. This brings a lot of added convenience for those who prefer to take their supplements outside of meal times. Enhancers such as L-argine and AAKG are featured prominently here. For those looking for a purist beet root option, this may not be the bets fit.
Additionally, it’s manufactured in an FDA certified facility which should bring with it a peace of mind.
How We Rank
When creating our rankings for beet supplements, the first thing we looked at was the dosages of beet in each supplement. Specifically, we were looking for products that used clinically effective dosages based on the various scientific studies surrounding beet supplementation. Popular products like Beetroot Glycerite were quickly eliminated.
Next, we looked at the other ingredients in the products. Companies like HumaN scored high here because they used natural flavorings instead of potentially harmful artificial ones. Other products that included too many additional ingredients like Resync Recovery Formula were axed.
Lastly, we looked at the supplement function. Was it purely a beet supplement, or was it something else, with beets added to it? Since we preferred pure beet supplements, you won’t see popular Nitric Oxide boosting products on this list, even though they are often high-quality beet products.
Benefits
1. Beets may aid in lowering blood pressure levels. A 2013 systematic review examined the use of beets in lowering blood pressure. The review explored various studies on beets and their effects. All studies were performed between 2006 and 2012. A total of 254 participants were involved in all the studies reviewed.
The results showed a clear association between beets and reductions in systolic blood pressure. The researchers that reviewed these studies suggested that beets may significantly reduce one’s risk of cardiovascular disease or incidences (1).
A 2012 study also took a look at how beets may help in lowering higher than normal blood pressure levels. Researchers suggested that the high nitrate content in beets may be responsible for these effects (2).
Another 2012 study had similar findings. This particular study included 15 men and 15 women. Participants in one group received 500 g of beetroot and apple juice. In another group, they received a placebo juice that did not contain beetroot. Researchers measured and recorded baseline blood pressure levels for all participants.
They then continued to take these measurements hourly for the 24 hours after participants drank the juice. The results showed a lower systolic blood pressure reading after drinking the beet juice. They concluded that beet juice would significantly lower systolic blood pressure in healthy adults, contributing to a possibly reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases (3).
2. Beet juice or beets may increase and improve physical performance, stamina, and endurance. A 2012 study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics included 11 participants to examine whether beets improved the performance in a 5-km running treadmill test. Participants were asked to consume baked beetroot. They then did the test 75 minutes after consumption.
The same test was conducted after the consumption of cranberry relish as a placebo. Running velocity was 5% faster during the last 1.8 kilometers of the beetroot trial test. There appeared to also be no adverse effects or changes in heart rate. Thus, researchers concluded that beetroot may significantly improve athletic performance. This was, again, attributed to the high nitrate content (4).
A 2013 study in the Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism found similar results in trained cyclists at a moderate altitude. It’s thought that high nitrate combats the negative effects of hypoxia, increasing exercise tolerance. 9 amateur cyclists were included in the study. The single dosage of beets was shown to lower their VO2 max and enhance their performance (5).
A 2016 study also proved these benefits. This study examined the effects of beetroot supplements on sprint running performance, cognitive function, and exercise performance in another test. 36 male athletes participated in this study. Researchers found that it enhanced sprint and high-intensity intermittent running performance. They suggested that beets could potentially improve performance in single-sprint or team sports (6).
3. The fiber content in beets may improve digestion and help ease digestive issues, like constipation. 1 cup of beets contains 3.4 grams of fiber. High fiber content food is associated with regular and easy digestion and reducing symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease (7, 8).
High fiber foods have further been associated with a reduced risk in chronic diseases. These chronic and often life-threatening diseases include diabetes, colon cancer, and heart disease (9, 10, 11).
4. Beets may improve and boost brain health. A 2011 study examined the result of a high nitrate diet on brain perfusion in older adults. Beets are known for their high nitrate content. Brain perfusion was measured by arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging.
Researchers observed increased regional cerebral perfusion in the white matter in the frontal lobe of the brain. This area of the brain is critical for executive functioning, leaving researchers to believe that eating a diet with a high beet content may improve these functions with age (12).
A 2014 study examined a high nitrate diet and its association with improved reaction times in those with type 2 diabetes. Reaction time was found to be 4% faster in those who drank 250 milliliters of beet juice every day for 2 weeks (13).
Another study also looked at the cognitive and brain effects of beetroot consumption. Participants in this particular study drank the beetroot juice in conjunction with an exercise program. It was found that older adults that exercised and drank beetroot juice had the most significant effects and had brain networks that more closely resembled those of younger adults (14).
5. Beets may have anti-cancer effects. An older 1996 study, published in Cancer Letters, studied these effects in a test-tube approach utilizing human cells. Interestingly, the beetroot had inhibitory effects on prostate and breast cancer cells. It led researchers to indicate that further research was needed on these surprising and possibly, life-saving benefits (15).
Another study also posed similar results. It was suggested the beets could be a viable source in preventing lung, skin, and colon cancer. It was thought that this was due to the pigment betacyanins, which appear to halt cancerous growths. Further, they may inhibit and prevent future growth of other cancerous cells, not limited to lung, skin, and colon cancers (16).
6. Beets may help promote a healthy weight loss and contribute to a well and balanced diet. The nutritional content of beets is highly regarded by nutritionists and dietitians. They are low in calories, at only 44 calories per 100 grams. Low calorie foods are associated with weight loss (17).
The high fiber and protein content are also thought to contribute to weight loss. Many nutritionists and scientists claim that these nutrients cause a reduced appetite and feelings of satiety.
7. Beets have antioxidant effects that may contribute to anti-inflammatory properties and benefits. Beets have betacyanins which are compounds are thought to contribute to reduced inflammation throughout the body (18, 19, 20).
A 2013 study even showed these effects to be plausible. 40 participants with osteoarthritic knee pain were observed in the study. Researchers showed that supplements containing beet concentration improved knee discomfort, increased joint function, and decreased inflammation (21).
Another study also concluded with results showing that beetroot may decrease inflammation and oxidative stress in obese individuals (22).
8. Beets encourage liver detoxification (23). A 2013 study explored these effects in more detail. Researchers found that beetroot, containing betanin, has detoxifying and antioxidant effects on human liver cell lines (24).
Another 2013 study also looked into these effects on the liver. It was showed to have positive hepatic effects on rat liver function. However, researchers did indicate that human trials and studies were needed to show more direct results and human application (25).
9. Beets have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. They further reduce the risk of a cardiovascular incident, such as a heart attack or stroke.
A 2016 study published in the Journal of Functional Foods showed that beets improved endothelial function in elderly with a cardiovascular risk. These means blood flow and blood vessel functioning was improved. Researchers concluded that a higher nitrate diet may decrease the risk of cardiovascular risk in the elderly (26).
A similar conclusion was drawn by researchers in a 2013 study. The study involved 20 healthy overweight and slightly obese men. Participants were given 140 milliliters of beet juice. Flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery and blood was sampled and measured. It was found to improve flow-mediated dilation in the brachial artery. As such, researchers indicated it could significantly reduce the chances of a cardiovascular incident (27).
10. Beets have been shown to be supportive for fatty liver disease. While beets, in general, provide a multitude of benefits, one of the most significant attributes is their ability to support the treatment of fatty liver disease.
Scientific research has shown that those who have high cholesterol, diabetes, or are obese have a higher chance of developing fatty liver disease, or steatosis. Fatty liver disease is condition in which fat begins to inhabit between 5% and 10% of the liver. As the liver’s main function is to process food and filter harmful substances, the presence of excess fat interrupts this process (28).
Treatment for fatty liver disease usually comes in the form of weight loss to help reduce the amount of fat within the body. Though this is a moderately effective treatment, studies have shown that supplementing this treatment with beetroot can increase the success rate. According to a study conducted in 2018, the use of beetroot can decrease fatty liver disease by significant amounts.
Organic beetroot powder was given to 40 participants over the course of 12 weeks. Each participant took 5g of beetroot powder twice a day for this time period. Following the conclusion of the study, participants who received the supplement found a decrease in the amount of fat on the liver by approximately 55% (29).
As fatty liver disease is slowly becoming a health crisis in the United States, beetroot is making a substantial impact. Prior to undertaking beetroot supplementation, it is always important to consult with a physician or primary care provider.
11. Beets can help in anemia prevention. Anemia is a common disease that many people experience on a continuous basis. Anemia is a condition in which a deficiency of red cells or hemoglobin is present. This deficiency may often result in various symptoms including pallor or weariness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and headaches.
Once a diagnosis of anemia has been made, the main goal will be to increase hemoglobin levels in the blood. While there are several treatments in place to combat this condition, including traditional over-the-counter prescriptions, beets and beetroot have been found to be highly effective in the treatment of anemia
Beetroot helps in repairing and reactivating red blood cells within the body. As beetroot is also filled with vitamin C and iron, it functions as a great catalyst for hemoglobin production. Scientific studies have shown that hemoglobin production can be increased by approximately 50%. This will ultimately provide an efficient and expedient source of treatment for those who need it (30).
Treatment of anemia may require multiple supplements as well as possible intervention from primary care doctor. Always remember to consult with a physician prior to choosing a primary supplement or course of treatment.
Side Effects
1. Some studies suggest that beets have no impact on performance, particularly in elite runners (28).
2. It’s cautioned in various literature and texts that beets may not be beneficial to consume in high quantities during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. However, studies have not explored this in-depth, and further research is necessary to back up these claims. During pregnancy, it’s best to follow a diet in all essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor to learn more about appropriate food consumption during pregnancy.
3. Eating a high quantity of beets may make kidney disease worse. Doctors and experts advise caution and recommend avoiding beets if you have health issues involving your kidneys.
4. Eating a lot of beets is associated with kidney stones.
5. It may create a pink taint in your urine. This only happens for about 10-14% of the population.
6. Beets may cause a darker stool color. In addition to an abnormal pigment in your urine, you may also experience abnormal pigmentations in your stool. If the color is bright red, seek out medical advice. It may be a sign of fissures or hemorrhoids.
7. High beet consumption may also lead to gallstones. Usually, your doctor will recommend you avoid foods, like beets, if you have any sort of health predisposition that could cause gallstones to occur from the consumption of high-oxalate foods.
8. Beets can trigger an allergic reaction. While this is a very rare occurrence, those who may be more prone to immune system reactivity should always be careful when consuming a new food. This is even more important for those who may plan to consume large quantities of the supplement.
In most cases, a beet allergy will manifest in the form of asthma or rhinoconjunctivitis. This is generally caused due to vapor inhalation during the cooking of beets. More recently, however, there have been a few instances of allergic reactions caused by the ingestion of beets.
Allergies are generally caused by an overreaction of the immune system. When the immune system identifies a substance as a threat, histamine is released in an effort to remove the threat. This surge of histamine is responsible for stuffy noses and runny eyes due to allergies in the air.
In some cases, however, some people may experience a more severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a systemic allergic reaction that may cause dizziness, swelling of the eyes, nose, tongue, and throat, or even anaphylactic shock.
Those who are allergic to certin foods such as spinach or chard, may have an increased chance of being allergic to beets. If an allergic reaction does occur during the use of a beetroot supplement or through beet consumption, it is important to consult a medical physician immediately.
Recommended Dosage
Beetroot tends to be dosed on the nitrate content, with around 0.1-0.2mmol/kg (6.4-12.8mg/kg) being the target for nitrate. This is about 436mg for a 150lb person, which is comparable to half a kilogram (500g) of the beetroots themselves (wet weight).
For athletic performance, beetroot juice 70-140 mL daily has been used, often taken a few hours before exercise. Baked beetroot 200 grams taken 75 minutes before exercise has also been used.
For other benefits, there are not enough scientific studies that have conclusive data as too which amount is correct for the given benefit.
FAQ
Can you drink beet juice every day? In some studies, drinking about 2 cups of beet juice daily or taking nitrate capsules lowered blood pressure in healthy adults. In one study, people who drank beet juice for 6 days had better stamina during intense exercise.
Can you lose weight by eating beets? Beets help you detox and lose weight because they contain no fat and are a good source of dietary fiber — half soluble and half insoluble. Similarly, beets are rich in magnesium, a mineral that supports optimal nerve and muscle functioning, which could be beneficial for losing weight.
Is red poop bad? If you are a beetroot lover like me, you may have poop red. A visit to the restroom sometime after eating a tasty beet leaves a scarlet trace. The technical term for the presence of the red beetroot pigments in urine or stool is beeturia.
Are beets good for your lungs? Beetroot juice helps the lungs to work more efficiently and studies have found that it can enable healthy adults to exercise for up to 16% longer. Firstly, it widens blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and allowing more blood flow. Secondly, it affects muscle tissue, reducing the amount of oxygen needed by muscles during activity. The combined effects have a significant impact on performing physical tasks, whether it involves low-intensity or high-intensity effort.
How can you tell if beets are bad? If it is soft like a tomato is, then it has probably spoiled. If, on the other hand, it is still firm but has little “give” to it, then it’s probably fine to eat. It is the cooking that softens it up, though it can be eaten raw. I grate some raw beetroot into salads and stuff occasionally, just for fun.
How long does it take to get beets out of your system? Don’t be alarmed if you notice any red pigment in your urine or BM, because that’s what beets do. If you’re not seeing red within 24 hours, then your body is taking too long to move waste through your digestive system.
Are beets good for COPD? Beetroot juice improves the exercise function of COPD patients, study shows. COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, makes it difficult for patients to breathe and worsens over time.
Is beetroot good for your liver? Beetroot juice protects the liver from oxidative damage and inflammation, all while increasing its natural detoxification enzymes.
Are beets good for diabetics? Beets are high in vitamin C and folate. Plus, they’re a great source of the antioxidant lipoic acid. Recent research shows it can be helpful in healing nerve damage in people with diabetes.
Is it ok to drink beet juice every day? Yes, it is ok to drink beetroot juice every day. In some studies, drinking about 2 cups of beet juice daily or taking nitrate capsules lowered blood pressure in healthy adults. Beet juice may also help your stamina when you exercise.
Are raw beets better than cooked? Cooked beets are much higher in dietary fiber compared to beet juice because the juicing process removes over 90 percent of the fiber. However, betalains and some other nutrients are reduced in cooked beets because they are sensitive to heat.
Why does your urine turn dark after eating beets? Because low stomach acid can make it difficult to digest and absorb nutrients, your body may have trouble metabolizing the red pigment in beetroot. So, you may notice red or pink urine after you eat beets or drink beet juice.
Are dehydrated beets good for you? Beets are dense with nutrients, including potassium, betaine, magnesium, folate, and Vitamin C and a good dose of nitrates. Dehydrated beets offer most of those benefits; however, they are often loaded with unhealthy, cheap fats to make them delicious so only enjoy in moderation.
What do beets taste like? The taste of beets has often been described as “earthy”. This taste mostly stems from the microbes in the soil. The texture of beets tends to be slightly gritty. With both elements combined, thee are many people who may not be interested in eating beets directly for their supplemental needs.
Are beets safe to eat while pregnant? Yes, eating beets is not only safe while pregnant but encouraged. Beetroot juice helps to manage blood pressure and blood sugar, two particularly important aspects of a healthy pregnancy. Additionally, beets provide expectant mothers with a boost of potassium and energy.
Are beets good to eat before a workout? Yes, beets have many benefits that can contribute to a successful workout and optimum results. Beets have been known to improve blood and oxygen flow to tired muscles and increase endurance. Both aspects must be maintained on a regular basis by those who choose to exercise regularly
Can beets help regulate sleep? Yes, beets contain an important nutrient called Choline. This particular nutrient not only helps to regulate sleep, but helps to maintain muscle movement, learning, and memory as well. The choline contained in beets help to promote healthy sleep behaviors which could lead to other health benefits.
Does beetroot help with weight loss? The nutrients, such as fiber and protein, also prove to have various beneficial effects. They may help in weight loss since they provide feelings of fullness and reduce one’s appetite. They may further contribute to overall optimal health.
Does beetroot help with cancer? Beets may also have anti-cancer effects, anti-inflammatory properties, protective liver effects, and antioxidant properties, protecting the body from many chronic diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and many types of cancer. Their antioxidant effects may further extend to improved aging, better cognitive functioning, and more.
What vitamins can I get from beetroot? Beetroot can provide multiple vitamins and nutrients. They are a great source of fiber, vitamin B9 (folate), potassium, manganese, iron, and vitamin C. Those who find themselves deficient in multiple vitamins should truly consider beets as a great supplementation option
Are there different types of beets? Though many people immediately think of the common red beets displayed in the grocery store, there are many different types of beets available. Of the possible options, the Red Ace, Ruby Queen, and Sugar Beet are among the most popular. It is recommended that you research and try multiple types of beets as each can provide a different taste more suited to your preferences.
Is it better to eat beets or purchase a supplement? The best way to increase your intake of beets and, subsequently, beetroot, will vary greatly depending on the individual involved. There are multiple preferences to consider when choosing the best option to increase your beet intake. Beetroot generally comes in powder, capsule, and traditional vegetable.
Can beets cause diarrhea? Though there is the possibility of stool turning red from the ingestion of beets, symptoms involving diarrhea are highly unlikely.
Can beets cause gas and bloating? While beets are generally well tolerated, there are instances in which beets may cause some abdominal discomfort. If you happen to have low stomach acid, digesting and metabolizing the red pigment in beetroot may be complicated
Recap
Beetroot is an excellent food or supplement to include in your diet in moderation. In particular, beetroot juice or soups may prove to have optimal benefits, as these were the forms that had proven results in the above studies mentioned. Beetroot may lower systolic blood pressure levels, improving cardiovascular health and decreasing negative cardiovascular incidences.
This vegetable has further been suggested to help improve athletic performance, such as endurance and stamina – with one study showing an obvious 5% improvement. Like most vegetables and fruits, beets are best to be consumed in moderation and not in large quantities.
For Healthtrends #1 beetroot supplement recommendation, click here.