New York City is a high pressure city, where people can sometimes neglect their health. One of these health issues that can be a quiet killer, is high blood pressure.
According to WebMd, high blood pressure or hypertension increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Hypertension risk factors include obesity, drinking too much alcohol, smoking, and family history. Beta-blockers are a common treatment for hypertension.
High blood pressure can lead to heart ailments, including thickening of the heart, and heart failure.
Nitric oxide is a very strong chemical that causes your blood vessels to relax, which improves blood flow to your organs, muscles, and — most importantly — your heart. Without this chemical, your ability to exercise can be markedly reduced and you may have symptoms of a stiff heart, such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
Why? Beets are rich in natural chemicals called nitrates. Through a chain reaction, your body changes nitrates into nitric oxide, which helps with blood flow and blood pressure.
Beet Juice Benefits
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. In one study, people who drank beet juice for 6 days had better stamina during intense exercise.
Beet Juice Nutrition
One cup of raw beets has 58 calories and 13 grams of carbohydrates. A cup of beet juice is usually around 100 calories and 25 grams of carbohydrates, because of the way it is processed.
Beets are good sources of folate, potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, as well as nitrates.
