- Raw: Shred into salads or blend into smoothies
- Cooked: Roast with olive oil and herbs, boil, or steam
- Juiced: Mix with carrots, apples, or citrus for a delicious drink
- Powdered: Add to water, tea, or pre-workout smoothies
- Pickled: Preserved beets can be a tasty and gut-friendly side
Note: Beets may cause your urine or stool to appear pink or red – this is harmless and known as beeturia.
Safety and Side Effects
While beetroot is generally safe, keep in mind:
- Kidney stones: Beets are high in oxalates, which may contribute to kidney stone formation in sensitive individuals.
- Beeturia: Reddish urine or stool is harmless but can be alarming.
- Blood pressure medication: Beetroot may enhance the effects – consult your doctor if you’re on BP meds.
Its high nitrate content, antioxidant power, anti-inflammatory properties, and nutrient density make it effective in helping manage and prevent a wide array of diseases.
Whether you’re fighting high blood pressure, liver problems, or chronic inflammation, or just want to improve your energy, beetroot deserves a spot in your daily diet.