Red gold in powder: benefits for blood pressure, liver, and brain

Beetroot powder, popularly known as “reddish-purple gold,” has begun to gain attention in both the scientific community and the field of health and nutrition. This tuber, converted into powder, offers multiple benefits that can contribute to cardiovascular, liver, and cognitive health. As the demand for functional foods increases, it is crucial to understand how this superfood can be integrated into our daily diet.

Healing Properties of Beetroot Powder

Beetroot powder is a concentrated form of the bioactive components found in the fresh root, providing easier access to its nutritional contributions. According to professionals at the Mayo Clinic, beetroot is one of the richest plant sources of natural nitrates, compounds that have been shown to lower blood pressure in individuals with mild to moderate hypertension. The American Heart Association explains that the nitrates in beetroot promote the production of nitric oxide, which facilitates the dilation of blood vessels and thus improves circulation.

Liver Health Benefits

Research conducted by the Cleveland Clinic reveals that the antioxidants in beetroot, particularly betalains, play an important role in detoxification and cellular regeneration of the liver. These substances help combat the harmful effects of environmental and dietary toxins. Additionally, studies reviewed by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that regular consumption of foods rich in betalains is associated with healthy liver markers in middle-aged adults.

Positive Potential for Brain Health

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) in the United States has noted that beetroot powder could have a positive effect on brain oxygenation, thereby improving cognitive function, especially in older adults. Several clinical trials have suggested that supplementation with beetroot juice or powder positively impacts cognitive processing speed. This is partly attributed to increased blood flow and reduced neurological inflammation.

How to Incorporate Reddish-Purple Gold into Your Daily Diet

Incorporating beetroot powder into your daily meals is simple and versatile. Nutritionists from the Harvard School of Public Health recommend adding a teaspoon (approximately 3 grams) to fruit smoothies or natural juices. It can also be mixed into natural yogurt, soups, or vegetable creams, adding both color and nutrients to meals.

Basic Beetroot Smoothie Recipe

To enjoy its benefits, a healthy smoothie can be prepared by blending the following ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup (250 ml) of plant-based milk or skim milk
• 1 teaspoon of beetroot powder
• Optional: ½ teaspoon of chia seeds

Blend until smooth and serve cold. For optimal absorption of micronutrients, it is recommended to consume immediately.

Additionally, beetroot powder can be sprinkled on salads or incorporated into hummus, enhancing both its color and nutritional profile.

Precautions When Consuming Beetroot Powder

Experts from the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) in Mexico advise starting with small amounts and observing tolerance, especially in individuals with kidney problems or a history of stones. It is important to remember that beetroot powder should be considered a supplement and not a substitute for conventional medical treatments, which should always be prescribed and supervised by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Beetroot powder, or "red gold in powder form," not only adds a new level of flavor and color to food but also offers a range of health benefits that make it a highly valuable functional food. Its ability to help reduce blood pressure, facilitate liver regeneration, and improve cognitive function makes it an excellent ally in the modern diet.

If you want to learn more about how to improve your health through nutrition, feel free to continue reading this blog.