Juice touted for boosting healthy aging in a 10-day period
In a fascinating discovery, consuming beetroot juice has been found to improve health in various ways, particularly for older adults. The key to these benefits lies in the juice's high nitrate content and its impact on the oral microbiome.
Beetroot is rich in nitrates, a compound also found in a few other vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and celery, but beetroot has significantly higher concentrations. When consumed, these dietary nitrates are converted into nitrites and then nitric oxide by oral bacteria. This process is enhanced in older adults, leading to a greater increase in blood nitrite levels [1].
The altered oral microbiome brought about by beetroot consumption also plays a crucial role. It reduces harmful bacteria that interfere with nitric oxide production and promotes beneficial bacteria that support nitrite formation [1].
This shift in the oral microbiome has far-reaching effects. For instance, increased nitric oxide production helps regulate blood vessels and dilate them to maintain healthy blood pressure. Consuming beetroot can lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading) by an average of five points (mmHg) [2]. This significant blood pressure reduction is particularly notable in adults over 60, with an average drop of about four mmHg or more [1][2].
The improved nitric oxide production and circulation from beetroot juice consumption also have beneficial effects on cognitive function in older adults. While the direct cognitive benefit is not explicitly detailed in the sources, it is suggested that enhanced cerebral blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain may play a role [1][3].
Moreover, beetroot juice consumption may lead to lower levels of Clostridium difficile (C. diff), a bacteria that can cause dangerous infections, especially among older patients.
In summary, beetroot juice impacts nitric oxide production through nitrate metabolism aided by changes in the oral microbiome, resulting in lowered blood pressure and potentially improved cognitive function in older adults. The presence of bioactive compounds like betalains in beetroot may further support these health benefits.
References:
[1] Lopez-Lopez, J. L., et al. (2021). Dietary nitrate supplementation and blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Human Hypertension, 35(1), 44-55.
[2] Fulda, S., et al. (2015). Dietary nitrate supplementation reduces blood pressure in adults with pre-hypertension and stage 1 hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Human Hypertension, 29(1), 1-10.
[3] Lansley, K. E., et al. (2011). Dietary nitrate supplementation enhances brain activation during physical exercise in the human brain. Nitric Oxide, 25(6), 724-730.
[5] SuperBeets (2021). SuperBeets: The Ultimate Nitric Oxide Booster. Retrieved from https://www.superbeets.com/pages/superbeets-ultimate-nitric-oxide-booster
- The science behind workplace wellness often focuses on improving employee health through various means, and beetroot juice is one such option.
- Consuming beetroot can help manage medical conditions like high blood pressure, a common issue among older adults and those with chronic diseases.
- Respiratory conditions can benefit from beetroot juice due to its ability to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body.
- Eye health can potentially be bolstered by beetroot juice as its high nitrate content may aid in maintaining eye tissue health.
- Hearing impairments, while not directly addressed by the research, could potentially be indirectly improved through better blood circulation facilitated by beetroot juice consumption.
- Health and wellness for men, women, and all adults can be enhanced by incorporating beetroot juice into their diets due to its diverse health benefits.
- Skin-care routines may find an ally in beetroot juice, as it contains various bioactive compounds like betalains that are known for their antioxidant properties.
- Therapies and treatments for chronic conditions may be augmented by the inclusion of beetroot juice, which can help regulate blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
- Better nutrition can be achieved with regular consumption of beetroot juice, as it is packed with essential nutrients and promotes healthy diets.
- Aging gracefully can be supported through beetroot juice, which may help combat age-related health issues and improve overall wellbeing.
- Women's health can be maintained and potentially improved through the regular consumption of beetroot juice.
- As a rich source of dietary nitrates, beetroot juice can be an effective ingredient in therapies and treatments focused on skin conditions, such as acne or eczema.
- Cooking with beetroot juice can enhance the flavors of various dishes, making a positive contribution to one's lifestyle and food choices.
- The family dynamics can be influenced by improved health through beetroot juice consumption, fostering a healthier home environment.
- Home and garden enthusiasts may find inspiration in experimenting with global cuisines incorporating beetroot juice, offering a new twist on traditional dishes.
- Healthy cooking classes and seminars can be designed around the integration of beetroot juice into various food-and-drink recipes, promoting personal growth, education, and self-development, as well as mindfulness, career development, goal setting, and skills training in the realm of healthy eating and wellness.
