I know, you don’t like beets right? Well, when I was younger I did not like beets either, most likely (sorry mom) because of the way they were prepared. I think they were boiled or served from a can. Not good at all! I agree! But you can prepare beets and make them taste delicious, just with a little oil and salt! Throw them in the oven and roast away! (recipe below) They can be a side dish or added to salads, and taste great with things like walnuts, goat cheese and greens!
Why do I want you to eat beets?
➜ Supports liver and gallbladder function - beets contain betaine, which is a substance that supports bile flow from the gallbladder. Sadly many of us are walking around with sluggish gall bladders. This can lead to a series of problems, such as a gallbladder attack which eventually may lead to gallbladder removal. Betaine helps to support the secretion of this bile (which is stored in the gallbladder), and also enables the emulsification of our fats. On a side note, many people who are constipated may have sluggish bile flow and might notice this is exacerbated when fat is ingested. This is because the bile is not getting released properly from the gallbladder, so the fat is staying in the stool, which eventually leads to constipation.
➜ Supports methylation - they are high in folate which is necessary for our body’s to use in the methylation cycle. Methylation is part of the phase 2 detoxification process in the liver, and nutrients that support our detoxification pathways are always going to be beneficial, especially given all the toxins we are exposed to daily.
➜ High in soluble fiber - which has been shown to reduce inflammation, as well as protect against cancer, heart disease, and decrease glucose levels. And as many know, soluble fiber is good the health of our microbiome.
➜ High in Vitamins and Minerals - high in immune-boosting vitamin C, and B9 (folate) which is important for normal tissue growth and essential minerals like potassium (essential for healthy nerve and muscle function) and manganese (which is good for your bones, liver, kidneys, and pancreas).
➜ Supports blood pressure - beets are high in nitrates and can improve nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide is a vasodilator, which means it makes blood flow more easily through vessels and therefore lowers blood pressure.
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Simple Beet Recipe
Ingredients:
4-6 beets
Olive oil (depends on how many beets you have)
Salt and pepper
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Wash beets under cold water and cut off top and bottom.
Using a peeler, peel the outer skin layer off as best you can.
Using a sharp knife or mandolin, cut beets into chips of desired thickness.
Toss in a bowl until they are evenly coated with olive oil, salt and pepper.
On a large cookie sheet, lay down tin foil or parchment paper and arrange beets in a single layer.
Roast for 35-40 minutes tossing halfway through.
Enjoy hot with your meal or save for later and serve with salads over the week.
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