HEALTH AND NUTRITION

Why beetroot juice is good for people with anaemia

A blend of beetroot and carrots is a good way to start.

In Summary

• While beetroot leaves are useful for spleen and liver diseases due to their cleansing and diuretic properties, beetroot is an excellent source of iron, folate, vitamin C and B12.

• Lack of iron or blood loss in the body contributes to low haemoglobin which is often associated with anaemia.

Beetroot
Beetroot
Image: Pixabay

Beetroot is a purple ish-root vegetable that is often eaten as raw or cooked, packed with many health benefits.

Not only is beetroot good for the blood but it can also cure hangovers.

It can also be made into wine and a hair dye.

Haemoglobin is an iron-rich protein in the red blood that helps carry blood to various organs in your body.

Lack of iron or blood loss in the body contributes to low haemoglobin which is often associated with anaemia.

Beetroot juice
Beetroot juice
Image: Pixabay

According to Healthline, an anaemic person often displays symptoms of dizziness, cold hands and feet, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath.

Fatigue, skin paleness, poor appetite and headaches are also common.

While beetroot leaves are useful for spleen and liver diseases due to their cleansing and diuretic properties, beetroot is an excellent source of iron, folate, vitamin C and B12.

The iron in beetroot helps in repairing and reactivating the red blood cells in the body, which further increases the supply of oxygen to all body parts.

Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps to control the heart rate and blood pressure. It also counters the effects of sodium in the body.

Vitamin A, B6 and iron help protect the liver from inflammation and oxidative stress while enhancing its ability to remove toxins from the body.

Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant that is important for immune function and skin health.

Experts recommend taking iron-rich fruits and vegetables alongside fruits with Vitamin C as the fastest way to raise your iron level.

A blend of beetroot and carrots is a good way to start.

Experts also recommend drinking it daily to ensure a healthy blood count but in moderation.

Grated beetroot on fruits
Grated beetroot on fruits
Image: MARGARET WANJIRU

Drinking beetroot juice regularly can affect the colour of urine and faeces due to the natural pigments in beets.

People may notice pink or purple urine, which is called beeturia, and pink or purple faeces. These colour changes are temporary and not a cause for concern.

It is advised that people with low blood pressure or taking blood pressure medication should seek professional help before adding beets to their diet.

Nitrates in beetroot juice can affect blood pressure by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the muscles.


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