I remember when I first learned the benefits of beets. As a long-distance runner, I discovered the power of beets as a performance booster. The nitrates in beets convert into nitric oxide – which relaxes blood vessels & improves circulation.
When I drink beet juice, I notice a nearly instant boost in energy. It’s pretty amazing!
As it turns out, beets are also fantastic during your menopause transition because in addition to supporting cardiovascular health, they are also amazing for supporting liver detoxification – which is key to supporting hormonal health.
Red beet juice can have a positive influence on menopause symptoms like mood swings, insomnia & dizziness. Studies also show that regularly consuming beets can metabolize estrogen & testosterone levels.
Benefits of beets:
- High in folic acid & potassium
- Reduce water retention
- Fights inflammation
- Support liver & detoxification pathways
- Helps regulate blood sugar & support weight loss
- Support hormone balance
- Reduce excess estrogen levels
- Great source of Vitamin B6
- Support immune system
- Amazing boost of energy when you need it
These are just a few of the benefits you will experience when adding beets to your diet. You may also notice a reduction in hot flashes.
You don’t have to eat beets every day. Just a few times/week will give you plenty of benefits. Give it a try & see what you notice.
Beets are delicious roasted. You can grate some + mix into a salad or add a chunk or two to a smoothie.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy beets is as a juice. When I drink one of these juices before a run, I always have extra energy. Give it a try!
How to Make Beet Juice (without a juicer)
This recipe is straight-up beet. Nothing added. So, if you don’t like beets, you won’t like this juice. But, if you do like beets (or if you’re willing to chug something just for the benefits), then definitely give this one a try.
- Cover 2-3 red beets with water + bring to boil. Boil long enough to soften them up just a bit. You don’t have to cook all the way.
- Pour it all into Vitamix & blend for 30-45 seconds.
- Skim the foam of the top of the juice with a spoon.
- Pour into 8 oz. Mason jars.
- Keep in the fridge. Should stay fresh for about 3 days.
Beet juice is definitely worth a try to combat menopause symptoms.
During menopause, the liver can get overworked trying to clear out excess hormones. And, unlike hormone therapy, beets don’t add to the burden on your liver – instead they help relieve it.
A FEW TIPS: Start gradually. It’s potent! Drink a small shot glass. Or mix with other ingredients like carrots or apples. Beets can also reduce blood pressure, so be aware of this – especially if you are on medication for blood pressure. Talk with your doctor to see if there are any concerns for you to be aware of,
Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25421976
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4425174/
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