The Daily Observer London Desk: Reporter- John Furner
It is one of those vegetables that most people either love or hate.
Beetroot, you may be surprised to learn, has also, at times, divided some scientists who have debated its benefits.
That’s because beetroot is high in nitrates and nitrites — molecules made from nitrogen and oxygen that are also found in red meat, and blamed for the ill effects of foods like bacon and ham.
It is thought that the compounds in the processed meat react with other molecules in the body to increase the risk of cancer.
In my work as a nutritionist, clients often ask me whether this means nitrate-containing veg, like beetroot, pose a risk too. In fact, I tell them, the truth is quite the opposite.
Rob Hobson is an award-winning nutritionist. His book, Unprocess Your Life, is filled with recipes and ideas to help you reduce your intake of processed foods
One of the reasons beetroot can give your body a boost is because it’s particularly high in folate. Folate, also called vitamin B9, is mainly found in dark leafy greens, beans, peas and beetroot
Nirates and nitrites are risky in some forms of meat because, when combined with chemicals in the body, they create molecules called N-nitroso compounds (NOCs), which can increase the risk of rectal tumours forming during digestion.
But in vegetables, they enter the body where they are converted to nitric oxide — a substance which can dilate blood vessels, reducing the risk of high blood pressure and therefore, heart disease.
The high nitrate content in beetroot may also help you run, swim and cycle faster.
Research has shown that large quantities of the compound can boost oxygen efficiency. This means that for a given amount of effort, athletes can perform at a higher level with less oxygen.
Andy Jones, Professor of Applied Physiology from the University of Exeter; investigated the effects of beetroot on sport performance.
He found the nitrates in the beetroot improve blood flow to the lungs and muscles, which resulted in faster delivery of oxygen.
That means you can potentially work harder without feeling the strain.
In one 2009 study led by the University of Exeter, researchers found drinking beetroot juice boosts your stamina.
The study was conducted on eight men aged between 19 and 38. They were given 500ml per day of organic beetroot juice for six consecutive days before completing a series of tests, involving cycling on an exercise bike.
On another occasion they were given a placebo drink of blackcurrant cordial for six consecutive days before completing the same cycling tests.
