Beets

Definition

Beets are the root of the Beta vulgaris plant. While most commonly a deep red with a vibrant red interior, golden, white, and candy-striped beets are available. Sugar beets are a high-sucrose variety used in the production of sugar. Beets are the source of beetroot red, a natural red food coloring. See: Betanin, Beetroot red

Health considerations

Beets are a source of vitamin C, folate, magnesium potassium, and manganese, and the antioxidants betalains. Research suggests that beet juice supplementation lowers blood pressure and may improve athletic performance due to the presence of naturally occurring nitrates. The pigments in beets can cause urine to appear pink or red.

May be found in

Pickled beets, pre-roasted beets. See: Beetroot red

References

Journal of Nutrition 

Journal of Applied Physiology 

Nutrition Data 

Pharmacological Research

Alternative names and spellings

Beetroot