Volume: 2, 2023
2nd International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: B014
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL2.B014
Published online: 19 April 2023
ICDSUPL, 2, B014 (2023)
Health benefits of beetroot
Julian Szymański1*, Ewa Baranowska-Wójcik1, Dominik Szwajgier1
1 Department of Biotechnology, Microbiology and Human Nutrition, Faculty of Food Science and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin; Skromna 8, 20-704, Lublin, Poland
* Corresponding author: julian.szymanski@up.lublin.pl
Abstract
The health-promoting properties and nutritional value of redbeet are known not only in Poland but also around the world. Beetroot owes these properties to the presence of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and betalain dyes. Therefore, beetroot and its preserves have been used in medicine for centuries due to various health-promoting effects. Beets strengthen the circulatory system. Beetroot and its preserves are also recommended to athletes due to the effect that improves physical performance by increasing the level of exercise tolerance by the body and increasing cardio-respiratory endurance. It prevents anemia, what’s more, it supports the treatment of leukemia. The dyes contained in beets are very strong antioxidants and increase the absorption of oxygen by cells four times. Researchers have proven that the nitrates present in beetroot juice increase blood pressure-regulating nitric oxide levels. The color of beets is due to betalain dyes’ content – antioxidants that protect against the damaging effects of free radicals. For this reason, beetroot can help prevent cancer. Red pigments remove free radicals, which damage DNA and contribute to the formation of cancer. Thanks to the alkaline-forming properties, beetroot restores balance in the stomach after acidifying by meats and sweets. Betalains have a strong anti-inflammatory effect by modulating signals in the inflammatory reaction cascade. Metabolites (betanin and betanidine) have a strong antioxidant effect due to the ability to neutralize free radicals, responsible for damaging cell membranes, and electron donor properties. They inhibit lipid oxidation and react with peroxynitrate, which is one of the main factors responsible for oxidative DNA damage. Beetroot – prevention of lifestyle diseases – the ingredients contained in the root efficiently remove homocysteine from the bloodstream, whose too high levels can lead to the development of lifestyle diseases, i.e. increasing cholesterol levels, developing atherosclerotic plaques or increasing blood pressure. Effect on the digestive system – beets perfectly smoothe the ailments appearing in the digestive system: they reduce flatulence and heartburn, and at the same time regulate the work of the intestines, and in the case of people on a reduction diet – they effectively accelerate the process of slimming and fat burning. Beetroot has a high nutritional value and is a rich source of bioactive ingredients. Consumption of beets and their products can be used as an easily accessible and relatively cheap method of supporting the body in various diseases. Its regular consumption in various forms will certainly help in a natural way to support the functioning of the body, as well as to minimize the risk of developing civilization diseases and cancer.
How to cite
J. Szymański, E. Baranowska-Wójcik, D. Szwajgier 2023. Health benefits of beetroot. In: 2nd International PhD Student’s Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL2/B014