Professional Faqs: Do Beets Lower Blood Pressure?
Beetroot image
Expert opinion from Gabriella Leite
Nutritionist · 6 years of experience · Brazil
It does help, and when consumed, a reduction in blood pressure can be observed within 24 hours. This is because beets have nitrate in their composition. Nitrate improves the dilation of veins, improves blood flow and the passage of oxygen. Citrus foods guarantee this action. That’s why the beet can be used in the preparation of a juice added to several other fruits such as orange, lemon, carrot to serve the same purpose.
Expert opinion from Michael Colangelo
Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition · 15 years of experience · USA
Elevated blood pressure over time is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Beetroot juice may slightly lower blood pressure according to several small human studies. Beets are rich in dietary nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitrates, when converted into nitric oxide, improve blood flow by relaxing and widening blood vessels. Green leafy vegetables like spinach and Swiss chard are also good sources of dietary nitrates.
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Expert opinion from Livia Dickson Chen
PhD in Nutrition · 11 years of experience · Brazil
There are some studies that point out that the consumption of beetroot juice helps to reduce blood pressure. This effect would be related to the presence of nitrate, which has a vasodilator action, causing blood vessels to relax or dilate, making blood flow more easily.
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