Beetroot juice: benefits and harm to the body

Beetroot, like any vegetable, has in its composition positive substances that allow you to normalize the work of internal organs. Moreover, useful micro and macro elements are preserved even when using beets in the form of freshly squeezed juice. But not everyone knows when beetroot juice will be healthy, and when it is contraindicated, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the features of such a vegetable drink beforehand. Beetroot juice is often used as a medicine or cosmetic.

Composition and calorie content

Beetroot has a positive effect on the state of health and on the human body for the reason that it contains many vitamins, minerals, micro and macro elements important for the normal functioning of internal organs. It is also important that the composition contains B vitamins, which are essential for strengthening immunity, as well as A, C, E and PP.

Additionally, there are such minerals:

• Sodium.
• Magnesium.
• Calcium.
• Phosphorus.
• Iron.
• Selenium.
• Chlorine.

Calorie content is very low: only 100 kcal per 100 grams of drink. Additionally, the total energy value is: 1 g of protein, 9.9 g of carbohydrates and 0 g of fat, so it’s impossible to recover from such a drink.

Beets are recommended for weight loss, and there are plenty of recipes for maximum benefits, combined with the effectiveness of weight loss. An important quality is also the fact that all useful substances in combination provide a beneficial effect on the body.

What is beetroot juice good for?

The benefits of beet juice for the body are very large, since each vitamin and mineral has a positive effect on overall health.

General benefit

1. Iron, which is part of beetroot juice, allows you to normalize the level of hemoglobin in the body.
2. Iodine improves brain activity and stimulates the production of new neural memory compounds.
3. Folic acid helps to normalize the transport of oxygen throughout the body, so muscles and tissues get all the substances necessary for the functioning.
4. Magnesium prevents the appearance of blood clots, provides excellent prevention of thrombosis, heart attacks and strokes.
5. Sodium and calcium are important minerals for the functioning of the venous and vascular systems, which additionally strengthen the skeletal system.
6. Chlorine cleanses the kidneys and liver, normalizes the lymphatic system.

It is important to take into account the fact that beet juice has a positive effect on both the female and male bodies.

For women

By restoring the hemoglobin level in the blood, the drink prevents the appearance of a general malaise during the period of menstruation. It is recommended to drink 50-100 grams of juice 2-3 times a day daily. And during menopause, the body will be able to extract the necessary substances from beetroot juice to normalize hormonal levels. But it is important to carefully draw up a diet based on beet juice, as there is a high probability of an allergic reaction, which is fraught with many unpleasant consequences.

For men

Juice consumption is the prevention of the appearance of adenoma, which is considered a benign tumor of the prostate gland, which prevents the development of cancer. Due to B vitamins and zinc, it is possible to normalize the amount of male hormones, which helps to avoid the appearance of impotence or general problems with an erection.

During pregnancy

Pregnant women often experience undue stress, which provokes excessive nervousness and emotional instability. Therefore, beetroot juice is recommended for the normal functioning of the nervous system. Moreover, a mild laxative effect avoids constipation, which is also considered a common problem for women during the period of bearing a child.

When breastfeeding

When breastfeeding in the first month after the birth of a baby, avoid foods that can cause general malaise. It is not recommended to use beetroot juice because of its laxative effect and the ability to provoke an allergic reaction. But when a child reaches two months of age, beetroot juice can be introduced into the mother’s diet, since there are many useful micro and macro elements in it.

For kids

Beetroot juice belongs to the category of aggressive foods for the digestive system of a child, therefore, it can only be introduced into the diet when it reaches 8 months of age. But the pronounced taste is not pleasant for every kid, so you can dilute beetroot concentrate with carrot or apple fresh. It is recommended to infuse the juice for at least two hours, and then give it to the child.

Beetroot and carrot juice: benefits and harms

Juice from beets and carrots is considered a vitamin product that positively affects the body, but, in addition to benefit, there is harm, so it is important to carefully consider its effect on the body.

Among the usefulness of beet and carrot juice can be identified:

1. The level of cholesterol and blood sugar is normalized.
2. Increases immunity, making the body much easier to cope with the loads in the form of respiratory and viral infections.
3. The work of the gastrointestinal tract is normalized.
4. Beetroot juice is considered a natural antipyretic.
5. It has a positive effect on the skin, as they are cleaned from the inside.
6. The body is cleansed of toxins and toxins, which eliminates intoxication, which is considered an important positive quality for dysbiosis.
7. The work of the heart muscle improves, blood pressure normalizes.
8. Plaques in the blood are eliminated, the appearance of thrombosis is prevented.
9. The genitourinary system improves and fluid stagnation is prevented.

If we talk about possible harm, here we can highlight the following important features that are worth paying attention to, since they indicate the appearance of an adverse reaction:

• Burning and swelling of the mucous membranes.
• Dizziness and headache, constantly developing into a chronic one.
• Yellowness of the skin.
• The appearance of a syndrome of low blood pressure.
• Pain in the heart.
• Dryness on the mucous membranes in the oral cavity.

It is also not recommended to drink beetroot and carrot juice for gastritis with high acidity, as this can turn into a general malaise and the appearance of a lot of problems with well-being.

How to drink beetroot juice for weight loss

Beetroot juice is also considered a useful product for weight loss, but it is important to use it correctly so as not to harm the body.

It is important to remember that beet juice is a complex of vitamins and minerals that provides support for overall health, creating excellent preventive conditions to prevent serious problems with the body.

After consuming such a drink, a feeling of full satiety is created, as the blood sugar level rises. After 15–20 minutes, insulin production begins, so saturation gradually decreases.At this time, a small protein snack will be ideal to improve the general condition of the body during weight loss and to satisfy a severe hunger.

It is also important to adhere to the following rules:

1. You can not drink fresh juice from beets immediately after its preparation, since it is necessary that all volatile essential oils dissolve. It is recommended that you put it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
2. Such a drink should be introduced into the diet gradually in order to avoid an adverse reaction. The recommended initial dose is 1 teaspoon, after which the volume gradually increases to 200–250 ml.
3. If desired, you can mix beetroot juice with carrot juice to diversify and soften the taste. But it is important to remember that the recommended period of admission is 2 weeks, after which you need to take a break. After this, the course is passed again to replenish the body's reserves with useful substances and vitamins.

But it is worth remembering that any combination of beetroot fresh with different additives can change the structure of the drink, so the effect will be appropriate. And that is why it is worth initially analyzing the chemical composition of each product in order to get only benefit and avoid a negative reaction to the body.

Freshly squeezed beetroot juice in medicine

Beetroot juice is considered an effective medicinal drink, so it is used to treat various kinds of diseases.

With diabetes

In diabetes, such a drink is useful due to the ability to normalize blood pressure and improve oxygen transport throughout the body. The good news is that the juice contains a lot of fiber, so you can saturate the body, start the process of losing weight, and also remove bad cholesterol. But it’s important to drink juice in a normal amount without abusing it, as excessive consumption can cause an increase in sugar.

Important: the glycemic index of raw beets is 35 units, boiled 65, and beet tops 15.

With pancreatitis

Beetroot juice contains many useful elements for the body, among which, first of all, anti-inflammatory enzymes can be noted. They improve the functioning of the pancreas. But it is important to remember that the drink is suitable for use only with persistent remission, since with exacerbation there is a likelihood of deterioration.

With gastritis

With gastritis with high acidity, beetroot juice is not recommended for the reason that it is possible to worsen the condition of the gastric mucosa. But here at the stage of remission they are allowed to consume such a drink to strengthen the walls of the stomach and prevent the onset of inflammatory processes. But you should follow the recommendations of your doctor, as there may be individual contraindications.

For the intestines

Beetroot juice strengthens the intestinal walls, increases their elasticity and softness, simplifies the process of getting rid of toxins and toxins. But it is not recommended to drink the drink for more than two weeks, since there is a likelihood of a deterioration in the performance of the gastrointestinal tract.

For constipation

Beetroot juice has a slight laxative effect, removes all toxins from the intestines and stomach, and normalizes the digestive tract. But in order to completely get rid of constipation, you need to regularly use such a drink.

With gout

Beets are a storehouse of boron, so the juice from such a root crop is ideal for the treatment of arthritis, arthrosis. Doctors also agree that the drink provides great support to the body with gout, removing the accumulated urea.

For the liver

The product allows you to cleanse the liver of toxins, normalize the outflow of bile. This allows the body to function without additional load, which helps to improve the general condition of the body.But it is important to remember that it is allowed to use 1 glass of drink per day, divided into 3 doses. So it will have a mild effect on the body.

With hemorrhoids

Beetroot juice with the addition of glycerin can be used as a compress in the treatment of hemorrhoids. A slight anti-inflammatory effect allows you to relieve swelling and establish blood circulation, which speeds up the process of treating the disease.

With cholecystitis

In acute cholecystitis, it is better to avoid the use of beetroot juice, since it provokes the appearance of additional inflammation, but at the remission stage such a drink will be extremely useful. An outflow of bile is being established, so the gall bladder begins to work in concert, which supports the normal functioning of the liver.

In oncology

It has been clinically proven that beet juice has a positive effect on the body, which has cancer cells. The composition contains betaine, which is known in medical practice as an excellent antitumor effect. The appetite also increases, the level of hemoglobin in the blood normalizes, the general condition of the patient improves. The course of taking such juice should be no more than two weeks, after which a break is made for the same period of time.

From a cold

Beetroot juice can be used as a natural treatment for the common cold, but for this you need to dilute 1 tablespoon of this concentrate with 2-3 tablespoons of water. The mass is used to instill the nose 3 times a day for 6 days, due to which the inflammation is removed and the mucous membranes of the nose are drained.

From pressure

Beetroot juice helps to normalize blood pressure due to the fact that it adjusts the circulatory system, filling it with necessary oxygen.

With anemia

Beetroot juice increases hemoglobin in the blood, which prevents the occurrence of anemia. But it is important not to neglect the norm: you can drink no more than half a glass of juice per day, dividing it into 3 doses.

Beetroot juice in cosmetology

Beetroot juice is a multi-functional product. It is also used for cosmetic purposes to improve the condition of the skin. Due to the content of potassium, betaine and vitamin C, the skin condition improves by restoring the level of collagen and elastin. Also, the product is suitable for healing hair in order to strengthen it.

To make a face mask based on beetroot juice, you need to adhere to such recommendations, depending on the purpose of the product:

1. For 1 tablespoon of beet juice, take 1 teaspoon of sour cream and 1 egg white. This mask is suitable for all skin types.
2. Combine 3 tablespoons of the natural drink with 1 tablespoon of grated potatoes. The mask will help relieve irritation, improve skin tone.

But it is important to remember that with redness and cuts on the skin, beet juice should be used with special care so as not to aggravate the situation, since vitamin C is present in the composition, which can cause inflammation.

For hair, you can prepare a mask based on juice and crushed aloe leaf. Then distribute it over all hair and soak under the bag for 30-40 minutes. For best effectiveness, you need to use the tool 1 time per week.

But blondes need to be careful, as beetroot juice tends to dye hair.

Harm and contraindications

Despite the enormous benefits of natural beetroot juice, there are certain contraindications, among which it should be noted:

1. Urolithiasis and complex kidney diseases.
2. Hypotension, as the product has the ability to reduce pressure.
3. Chronic diarrhea is a direct contraindication to the use of beetroot juice, since due to its laxative effect, the state of health may worsen.
4. Heartburn. With frequent heartburn, the product should be consumed very carefully to prevent an exacerbation.

How to make beetroot juice at home

The simplicity and convenience of making beetroot juice are the main advantages of obtaining a delicious aromatic drink in order to restore the normal functioning of the body. The easiest and most affordable way to cook is to use a juicer, which allows you to completely squeeze moisture out of the product.

You can also use regular grater and gauze to grate the product initially, and then squeeze all the juice out of it. On average, you can get a little more than half a glass of concentrated fresh from a single root crop of medium size.

For the preparation of beetroot juice, it is best to use sweet and juicy varieties, since they have the highest concentration of liquid, so you can make a natural and nutritious drink.

How much can you store freshly squeezed beet juice

You should try to use freshly prepared beet juice as quickly as possible, since over time the drink may oxidize and deteriorate. But it is important to remember that juice is considered ready for consumption only after being kept at a temperature of +4 degrees for 2-3 hours.

But there is even an opinion that beetroot juice can be frozen in briquettes for subsequent use in cosmetology and the preparation of masks for hair and face.

How to drink beetroot juice

To get the maximum benefit from beetroot juice, you need to drink it correctly, since it is an alkaline drink. When abused, it can negatively affect the digestive system, in particular, on the gastric mucosa with gastritis with high acidity.

You also need to remember that beets are a root crop with a pronounced taste and aroma, so for a more comfortable addiction it is recommended to combine it with carrot or pumpkin juice. Such a combination for the body will be more useful.

How much can I drink per day

The daily norm of beetroot juice depends on the characteristics of the body and the state of the digestive system. The most important thing is to correctly follow the doctor's recommendations if the drink is used for the purpose of treatment. You can’t immediately drink the juice in glasses, because for a soft effect on the body you need to start with 1 teaspoon, gradually bringing the daily amount to 200–250 ml.

Can I drink on an empty stomach and at night

Despite its great benefits and nutritional value of the drink, when using beetroot juice, you need to consider the time of day for drinking.

People with morning heartburn are not allowed to drink beetroot juice on an empty stomach, since this increases acidity and unpleasant sensations in the form of inflammation and worsening can occur. Very often, when drinking concentrated beetroot juice, you may experience a feeling of nausea, accompanied by vomiting.

If there are no medical contraindications for the use of such a drink, then it will be most useful for the body. Juice helps the gastrointestinal tract to prepare for eating, so in the future it will be softer to digest.

Beetroot juice is a heavy drink for the body, so its use in its pure form is not recommended at night before bedtime. So side reactions can occur in the form of an increase in flatulence and the appearance of bloating. It is recommended to mix this juice with other fresh vegetables to get a tasty and nutritious drink and prevent negative effects on the body.

But it is important to consult with a therapist initially, as in some cases adverse reactions of the body are possible, which can be expressed by the appearance of inflammatory processes and nausea.

Interesting facts about beets

Beetroot is a popular root crop that is filled with healthy vitamins, minerals and trace elements. His history of appearance and popularization has a lot of interesting facts that cannot be ignored:

1. Beetroot is considered the oldest garden crop that has been “tamed”.
2. Beets can be used not only for soups, borscht, salads, but even for desserts, as this is a natural dye that allows cream, cakes, mousses and other sweets to be given a special pink tint.
3. The Greeks at one time considered beets a sacred root crop, so they used it as an object of respect for Apollo. It was believed that if there was such a vegetable in the house, then one could talk about well-being and prosperity in the home.
4. The root crop first came to Russia in the 9-10th century, and only leaves were eaten, and the fruits were thrown away. It was believed that they did not contain anything useful. And as soon as the fruits were tried, they began to be used as a dessert, and the cooking process was extremely simple - baking in the oven. This dessert was served with tea.
5. Beets can grow on all continents except Antarctica, since this root crop is universal in terms of growing requirements.
6. Beets are equally useful in raw and cooked form, as well as fresh, because it retains all the useful substances, regardless of the processing method.
7. The high concentration of nutrients in the composition of the root crop has led to an expansion of opportunities for its use.
8. Beetroot refers to allergic products, therefore it is contraindicated in people who have individual intolerance.
9. To preserve the color of beets, it is enough to add boiling water when boiling a teaspoon of vinegar and sugar.
10. The high content of vitamins allows the use of root crops as a medicinal product.

Beetroot is a natural antioxidant that allows you to cleanse the body, normalize the work of internal organs, which is considered an important positive quality. The market offers a lot of options for beets, so you can rely on the choice of the particular variety that meets the need. A variety of methods of application and preparation allows extracting only health benefits from the root crop. The most important thing is to follow the recipe of the preparation, in order to enjoy, in addition to the benefit, the refined taste of the root crop.

Beetroot juice photo