Sponsored by Beetology

It’s a good bet that our ancient ancestors sat down to an infinitely simpler and more nutritious lunch than the tuna sandwiches and chips on our plates today. They used whatever ingredients nature brought their way, “straight up,” with minimal processing if any. And they discovered that certain foods from Earth’s pantry had properties that somehow seemed to make life a little better.

Today, of course, we know that different foods contain specific cocktails of nutrients associated with almost every aspect of wellness. And while “superfoods” have been around for ages, the demand for easy, tasty ways to embrace their powers has never been greater. Moreover, sophisticated consumers are interested in ingredients they can pronounce, served as close to farm-to-table as possible. But not everyone has time to grow and prepare a healthy diet from scratch.

That’s where Beetology’s new line of craft beverages comes in. These sweet, organic, cold-pressed juices are made from nothing but beets and a handful of other 100% natural, good-for-you ingredients like ginger, veggies, and fruit. Beetology has created a delicious way to drink your beets for optimal health benefits. And it’s not just for the flavor; beets may also improve your health in the following ways.

1. Lower Your Blood Pressure

Drinking beet juice may help to lower blood pressure in a matter of hours. One study found that drinking one glass of beet juice lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 4-5 points.

The benefit likely comes from the naturally occurring nitrates in beets, which are converted into nitric oxide in your body. Nitric oxide, in turn, helps to relax and dilate your blood vessels, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.

2. Boost Your Stamina

If you need a boost to make it through your next workout, beet juice may again prove valuable. Those who drank beet juice prior to exercise were able to exercise for up to 16 percent longer. The benefit is thought to also be related to nitrates turning into nitric oxide, which may reduce the oxygen cost of low-intensity exercise as well as enhance tolerance to high-intensity exercise.

3. Fight Inflammation

Beets are a unique source of betaine, a nutrient that helps protects cells, proteins, and enzymes from environmental stress. It’s also known to help fight inflammation, protect internal organs, improve vascular risk factors, enhance performance, and likely help prevent numerous chronic diseases.

4. Anti-Cancer Properties

The powerful phytonutrients that give beets their deep crimson color may help to ward off cancer. Research has shown that beetroot extract reduced multi-organ tumor formations in various animal models when administered in drinking water, for instance, while beetroot extract is also being studied for use in treating human pancreatic, breast, and prostate cancers.

5. Rich in Valuable Nutrients and Fiber

Beets are high in immune-boosting vitamin C, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium (essential for healthy nerve and muscle function) and manganese (which is good for your bones, liver, kidneys, and pancreas). Beets also contain the B vitamin folate, which helps reduce the risk of birth defects.

6. Detoxification Support

The betalin pigments in beets support your body’s detoxification process, which is when broken down toxins are bound to other molecules so they can be excreted from your body. Traditionally, beets are valued for their support in detoxification and helping to purify your blood and your liver.

Beets are also “a goldmine of health-boosting nutrients that you may not get anywhere else,” according to Health.com. And while scientists have yet to find the key to eternal youth, they’ve long known that beets contain antioxidants like lycopene, which boosts the production of collagen – associated with firmer, younger-looking skin.

“Beets are the new pomegranate,” said Charles Herzog, Chief Beetologist and VP of New Business Development at Kayco, producer of Beetology beverages. “Chefs, foodies, health-conscious folks, and even athletes have been tapping into the versatile beet in creative new ways.” Even Martha Stewart is getting into the act, he added. “Her latest cookbook has a Chocolate Beet Cake! She says puréed beets made it extra moist and not overly sweet.”

Delicious, refreshing Beetology comes in five tantalizing blends:

·       Beet + Lemon + Ginger

·       Beet + Veggie

·       Beet + Tropical Fruit

·       Beet + Berry

·       Beet + Cherry

Find Beetology in the refrigerated section at health food, specialty, grocery, and kosher food markets.