Sliced beets are a nutritious and low-calorie snack, with only 35 calories per 1/2 cup (85 g) serving. But more than just a diet-friendly treat, sliced beets have numerous health benefits that make them a worthwhile addition to any meal plan.

These root vegetables are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, potassium, and vitamin C. They also contain nitrates, which have been linked to improved blood flow and lower blood pressure. Additionally, sliced beets are a good source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel satiated.

In this article, we'll look at some of the ways sliced beets can benefit your health, as well as provide tips for incorporating them into your diet in delicious ways.

Benefits of Eating Sliced Beets

Sliced beets have numerous health benefits, thanks to their impressive nutrient profile. One of the biggest benefits of eating sliced beets is their ability to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, thanks to their high nitrate content. Other potential benefits of sliced beets include improved digestive health, boosted brain function, and weight loss support. Plus, their low calorie count and high fiber content make them a great addition to a weight loss or weight maintenance plan.

How to Incorporate Sliced Beets into Your Diet

If you're not sure how to incorporate sliced beets into your diet, don't worry - there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. One easy way is to sprinkle sliced beets onto salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a flavorful crunch. You can also roast sliced beets for a sweeter, caramelized flavor, or blend them into a smoothie for a nutrient-packed breakfast or snack. And if you're feeling especially adventurous, try making beet chips by thinly slicing beets and baking them in the oven until crispy.

What Makes Sliced Beets Healthy?

Sliced beets are considered a healthy food thanks to their low calorie count, high fiber content, and impressive nutrient profile. They're a good source of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health and wellbeing, including potassium, folate, and vitamin C. Additionally, sliced beets are rich in nitrates, which have been shown to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Nitrates are converted to nitric oxide in the body, which can help widen blood vessels and improve circulation.

Calorie Count and Serving Size

A 1/2 cup (85 g) serving of sliced beets contains only 35 calories, making them a low-calorie snack option. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and not to overdo it when snacking on sliced beets. While sliced beets are nutritious and healthy, they should be included as part of a balanced diet that includes a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Sliced Beets as a Post-Workout Snack

Sliced beets are a great post-workout snack option, thanks to their high nitrate content. Nitrates have been shown to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, which can be especially beneficial after a tough workout. Additionally, sliced beets are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel satiated and aid in digestion after a workout. Try adding sliced beets to a salad or wrap for a post-workout meal that's both delicious and nutritious.

Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Sliced beets are a good source of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health and wellbeing. For example, they're rich in folate, which is important for cell growth and development, as well as potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. Additionally, sliced beets are high in vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that can help boost immune function and protect against chronic disease.

Sliced Beets for Weight Loss

Sliced beets can be a great addition to a weight loss or weight maintenance plan. They're low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied without consuming too many calories. Additionally, sliced beets are a nutrient-dense food that can help you meet your daily nutrient needs while sticking to a lower calorie diet. Try adding sliced beets to a salad or wrap for a delicious and nutritious meal that won't wreck your diet.

Sliced Beets for Maintaining Blood Pressure

Sliced beets may help maintain healthy blood pressure levels, thanks to their high nitrate content. Nitrates are converted to nitric oxide in the body, which can help widen blood vessels and improve circulation. Additionally, sliced beets are a good source of potassium, which can also help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.

Sliced Beets for Improved Brain Function

Sliced beets may help improve brain function, thanks to their high nitrate content. Nitrates have been shown to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, which can boost cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Additionally, sliced beets are a good source of folate, which is important for brain development and function, as well as vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that can help protect against cognitive decline.

Sliced Beets for Better Digestion

Sliced beets may help improve digestion, thanks to their high fiber content. Fiber is important for maintaining regularity and preventing constipation, as well as promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Additionally, sliced beets can provide a great source of prebiotic fiber, which can help feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut and promote optimal digestion and immune function.