Unlock the Power of Beetroot Greens: 10 Surprising Health Benefits
You probably would have heard your mother stressing upon the benefits of beetroot. And you know she was right. But there is something else you might not know, and that is, even the leaves of beetroot can have umpteen benefits.
Hard to believe? Then sit back and read on!
Beetroot – An Introduction:
Beetroot is a vegetable that is grown in the ground. It is found in tropical as well as temperate regions of the world. It takes approximately 60 days for harvesting beetroot. Beetroot has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is known mainly for the health benefits it offers.
- Researches show that having beetroot juice improves health conditions.
- It can also enhance the oxygenation in athletes.
- Although complete health benefits of beetroot are still not known, various experts recommend that it should be consumed for a boost to health in general.
- As it belongs to the same family as spinach and chard, the roots as well as the leaves, both can be consumed.
- Leaves are a little bitter in taste while the roots are round and sweet.
- Due to a very high content of sugar in it, it can even be consumed raw.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Beet root has exceptional and effective nutritional benefits.
- Especially the green beetroot which is rich in iron, calcium, Vitamin C and A are exceptionally beneficial.
- Beetroot is a very good source of fibre, potassium, manganese and folic acids.
- Greens shouldn’t be over cooked.
- You can cook beetroot just like you cook spinach.
Health Benefits Of Beetroot Leaves:
- Beetroot improves the flow of blood to the brain.
- It slows down the progress and growth of dementia.
- Beetroot has got a lot of nutrients that are important to the health.
- Beetroot has calcium, potassium, magnesium, nitrate and sodium.
- Potassium helps in lowering the heart rate and regulates metabolism.
- Magnesium and sodium are helpful in maintaining the levels of fluids in the body.
- The dietary nitrates present in beetroot are linked with lowering the blood pressure and even lowering the risk of heart problems.
- Beetroot is very rich in iron, Vitamin C and Vitamin A.
- Vitamin A is crucial for membrane of mucus, good eyesight and a healthy and glowing skin.
- Vitamin C helps in boosting the immune system of the body.
Other Benefits Of Beetroot Leaves:
- Iron helps in the production of red blood cells in the body.
- Beetroot has foliates that help the synthesis of DNA in the cells.
- The fibres in beetroot are helpful in slowing down the conversion of fibre in glucose. Thus, it is very beneficial for people who have type-2 diabetes.
- Fibre is also helpful in reducing cholesterol.
- Nitrates present in beetroot widen the blood vessels which help in exercising in a better way. Thus, it is very important for athletes.
- Beetroot also has silica. Silica is helpful for strengthening hair and bones and even for maintaining a good and glowing skin.
How To Use Beetroot Leaves:
- Large leaves of beetroot are cooked and consumed as just a side dish. You can sauté the leaves of beetroot with some capers and garlic. Just sprinkle some black pepper, olive oil and lime juice over it and a healthy and delicious salad is ready.
- The small, young leaves of beetroot are usually consumed raw. They are a perfect addition in lettuce mix and salads. The leaves add color as well as flavour. If you wish to try something new, you can make a yummy haloumi & beetroot leaves salad.
- For making a pie of spinach, you just need to add some leaves of beetroot. It can turn your filling a little pink, but will be delicious.
- Beetroot leaves can also be used in Indian dishes like lentils (dhal in Hindi).
A Useful Tip:
In case you get stains on your hand while preparing and cooking it, just rub lemon on it. The color will be removed. Alternatively, wear gloves while handling beetroot.
So that is it; the amazing benefits of beetroot leaves are at your disposal! Have you ever consumed beetroot leaves? How did you feel? Share with us in the comments section!
