Drinking beetroot juice daily may not only improve blood flow through arteries but reduce the risk of heart disease in post-menopausal women, according to a new clinical trial by the Pennsylvania State University (Penn State), US.
That’s because beetroot juice is a good source of nitrate, which widens and dilates arteries and veins in the cardiovascular system. When the blood flows easily, it lessens the stress on the heart.
According to Dr Saptarishi Bhattacharya, senior consultant, Endocrinology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, the finding is significant because some treatments for protecting cardiovascular health in post-menopausal women, such as hormone therapy, are only effective during the first few years after menopause. Over a longer time, hormone therapy can increase the risk of cancers and stroke. Beetroot juice offers a natural and safe way to support cardiovascular health during this stage.
What is the link between menopause and heart health?
Menopause is a significant risk factor for heart disease in women. The hormone estrogen has a protective effect on the heart, keeping artery walls flexible and elastic. When its levels dip during menopause, women lose a natural shield of the heart.
How is beetroot juice good for women and their heart health?
A recent study, published in ‘Frontiers in Nutrition,’ suggests that daily consumption of beetroot juice improves blood vessel function, which is impacted by lower estrogen levels during menopause. The nitrate-rich juice helps to widen and relax blood vessels and protects post-menopausal women, who have decreased estrogen levels. The study found that the beneficial effects of beetroot juice were maintained even in late postmenopausal women, indicating its potential as a long-term strategy.
What does nitrate do?
The nitrate present in beetroot juice gets converted into nitric oxide in the blood, which relaxes blood vessels, improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. It also has anti-inflammatory effects.
What are other benefits of beetroot juice?
It boosts stamina. A 2016 study had shown how consuming 70 ml of beetroot juice daily for one week improved exercise tolerance in older adults with heart failure. It is a low-calorie drink that can be had as a smoothie. Since it contains natural sugar, people with diabetes must keep to limits and factor it in their daily calorie allowance. A 2014 study found that drinking 225 millilitres of beetroot juice, or a little less than a half cup, resulted in a significant suppression of post-meal glucose levels. Its antioxidants protect you from cancer and fatty liver. It is a rich storehouse of minerals like potassium, magnesium, sodium, zinc and copper. It is a good source of folate, a key B vitamin. And it reduces low density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol.
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First uploaded on: 05-07-2024 at 07:49 IST
