According to Lee Mitchell, nutritionist and UK Fitness Ambassador for www.renpho.uk, beetroot juice has gained significant attention in the world of nutrition due to its potential energy-boosting benefits. “One of the key advantages of consuming beetroot juice is its ability to boost energy levels – this can be attributed to the presence of dietary nitrates in beetroots, which are converted to nitric oxide in the body,” Lee explains. “Nitric oxide plays a crucial role in vasodilation, the widening of blood vessels. This improved blood flow can lead to enhanced oxygen and nutrient delivery to various tissues – including muscles – which can result in increased energy production and reduced feelings of fatigue during physical activities.”

As well as its potential to boost energy, beetroot juice offers a range of other health benefits. It’s rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. “These components contribute to overall health and wellbeing by supporting the immune system, aiding in detoxification processes and promoting cardiovascular health,” explains Lee. “The high content of antioxidants – particularly betalains – in beetroot juice can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.”

Does beetroot juice help with COPD?

There is some evidence that beetroot juice might actually help with COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, thanks to the nitrate content. A 2023 study conducted by researchers at Imperial College London, tested a beetroot juice supplement that is high in nitrate against a beetroot juice placebo without nitrate.

“There is some evidence that beetroot juice as a source of nitrate supplementation could be used by athletes to improve their performance, as well as a few short-term studies looking at blood pressure,” said Professor Nicholas Hopkinson. “Higher levels of nitrate in the blood can increase the availability of nitric oxide, a chemical that helps blood vessels relax. It also increases the efficiency of muscles, meaning they need less oxygen to do the same work.”

Are there any negative side effects of drinking beetroot juice?

Like any dietary component, Lee says it’s important to be mindful of potential negative side effects. While beetroot juice can be a great addition to a balanced diet, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Kidney stones: Beetroots are naturally high in oxalates, compounds that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. If you have a history of kidney stones or are prone to developing them, it’s advisable to consume beetroot juice in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional first.
• Blood sugar levels: Beetroots are moderately high in natural sugars and consuming large quantities of beetroot juice could potentially affect blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes. Monitoring your blood sugar levels and consulting with a healthcare provider is important if you have diabetes.
• GI distress: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or diarrhoea, when consuming beetroot juice in excess. Gradually introducing beetroot juice into your diet can help your digestive system adapt.

Is it safe to drink beetroot juice every day?

Ok, but is it actually safe to be drinking beetroot juice every day? Can I really treat it as a viable replacement for my daily coffee?

The short answer is, yes, it is typically safe. However, it’s important to remember that beetroot juice can lower blood pressure, so it may not be suitable for people who already have low blood pressure.

“If you take blood pressure-lowering medication, check with your doctor before regularly drinking beetroot juice. If your blood pressure drops too low, this can also affect your health,” recommends the British Heart Foundation.

Make your own beetroot juice

The simplest way to whip up your own batch of fresh beetroot juice is to throw some cubed beets straight into a juicer. Add in some apples, carrots and ginger for added flavour. If you don’t have a juicer, try using the same ingredients in a blender with some water to help thin out the mixture. Then use a strainer to thin it out some more.