Beets, a dark red tuber with a sweet earthy taste, have been making their way into smoothie glasses and wellness kitchens. I’ve never thought about it. I just accepted it as healthy and ate it occasionally. I read an article at the end of the year about the link between beets and women’s health. Since then, I drink a glass every day, particularly before and during my periods. How much beet is needed and why not eat the beet instead? But let’s start by stating the obvious: you could eat beet. You would need to consume two to three medium-sized potatoes a day to get the same amount (we will discuss the benefits of this macronutrient shortly) of nitrates as a glassful of juice. You could drink 250 millilitres instead. The juice makes it easier to absorb the valuable ingredients. In the scientific studies on vascular disease, participants drank 250 to 500 millilitres per day of beet. This is equivalent to 300-600 milligrams nitrate per day, which is a dose that has been shown in numerous studies to be effective. I drink 200 to 250 millilitres per day, every week, before and during my cycle. Drinking too much can cause stomach problems, bloating, or diarrhea. I prefer beets juice from organic markets, preferably without any added sugar or concentrates. Why I drink beets juice, especially during period?Beets juice is not only talked about for its potential to relieve PMS, but also contains many nutrients that are important during menstruation. Iron is one of them. During menstruation the body loses large amounts of blood, and therefore iron. However, this trace element plays a crucial role in the formation of red cells and the transport of oxygen within the body. The beet tuber contains iron and folate, two nutrients involved in blood formation that can help reduce fatigue. I try to supply my body with iron and folic acid in the days before my period so that iron loss during bleeding can better be compensated. Beets also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals which support energy metabolism, and are involved in cell formation. B vitamins are essential for many metabolic processes within the body. It’s not surprising that people reach for beets when they are tired or exhausted. (Like me, during the days leading up to my period, I was very tired). Beet juice benefits for hearthealthNitrate is another exciting, if it is not the most exciting, ingredient in beet. In the body, the nitrates become nitric dioxide, which dilates blood vessels, and therefore can improve blood circulation. The increased blood flow will also improve the oxygenation of muscles and tissues. This could theoretically reduce cramps and fatigue, which are the two main symptoms I experience during my luteal or menstrual phases.
