When we think of beets, we usually think of the root vegetable. However, did you know that the greens of beets are just as nutritious and can even be juiced? The leaves are often overlooked and thrown away, but this is a mistake as they are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of juicing beet greens, how to do it, and answer the question: can you juice the greens of beets?
The benefits of beet greens
Beet greens are highly nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals. They are particularly rich in vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. Just one cup of chopped beet greens can provide up to 500% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin K! They are also a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Beet greens are also high in antioxidants, which help to protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation. The antioxidants in beet greens have been shown to have anti-cancer properties, and research has suggested that they may also help to reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
How to juice beet greens
Juicing beet greens is a simple process that can be done using either a juicer or a blender. Follow these steps:
1. Wash the beet greens thoroughly under running water.
2. Remove any tough stems or veins from the leaves, as these can make the juice bitter.
3. Cut the beet greens into smaller pieces that will fit into your juicer or blender.
4. If using a blender, add a small amount of water to help loosen the greens.
5. Blend or juice the greens until they are smooth and liquidy.
6. If using a blender, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or fibers.
Can you juice the greens of beets?
The answer is a resounding yes! Beet greens are a perfectly safe and healthy addition to your juicing routine. In fact, you may find that the greens are even more nutritious than the beetroot itself. So the next time you buy a bunch of beets, don’t throw away the greens – use them to make a delicious and nutritious juice instead.
Conclusion
In conclusion, juicing the greens of beets is not only possible but highly recommended for anyone looking to increase their intake of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Beet greens are a nutritional powerhouse that can offer numerous health benefits, including improved bone health, reduced inflammation, and a lower risk of chronic illnesses. So next time you buy beets, don’t forget about the greens – give them a try and see for yourself just how delicious and nutritious they can be. For more information on juicing and healthy eating, visit https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/juicing-benefits.
FAQ
What are the benefits of juicing beetroot leaves?
Beet greens, the leafy tops of the beetroot, are often overlooked and discarded when preparing the root vegetable. However, they have amazing health benefits that are worth exploring. Historically, beet greens were used for their healing properties. Hippocrates believed that the juice from beet leaf bindings would help heal wounds. Today, research has shown that beet greens are filled with nutrients, phytochemicals and antioxidants that make them a healthy addition to anyone’s diet.
One benefit of juicing beet greens is that it helps to boost immunity. Beet greens are an excellent source of vitamin A and vitamin C, both of which have the ability to strengthen the immune system. Vitamin A helps to maintain the health of the skin and mucous membranes, which act as barriers against bacteria and viruses. Vitamin C, on the other hand, stimulates the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for attacking and destroying foreign invaders.
Another benefit of juicing beet greens is that it can lower blood pressure. Beet greens are rich in nitrates, which are converted to nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a compound that helps to relax and dilate blood vessels, which can lead to lower blood pressure. Studies have shown that drinking beet juice can lower systolic blood pressure by several points in just a few hours.
Juicing beet greens can also improve mental health. The high levels of vitamin B6 and folate that beet greens contain help to promote the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are essential for regulating mood, and low levels have been linked to depression and anxiety.
Additionally, juicing beet greens can strengthen bones. They are an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, all of which are important for maintaining bone strength and density. Studies have shown that getting enough of these nutrients can help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Juicing beet greens offers numerous health benefits. Beyond just being an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, they have been shown to boost immunity, lower blood pressure, improve mental health, and strengthen bones. Incorporating beet greens into your diet through juicing or adding them to salads and stir-frys is an easy way to boost your nutritional intake and promote overall health.
Are beet greens good for you?
Yes, beet greens are incredibly good for you! They are some of the most nutrient-rich greens around, containing more antioxidants and other phytonutrients than the bulbous roots themselves. In fact, a half-cup serving of cooked beet greens contains more than 13 different vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium. They are also incredibly low in calories, with just 19 calories per cup.
One of the main health benefits of beet greens is their antioxidant content. Antioxidants are compounds that protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that are produced by our bodies as a result of natural processes like metabolism, but also from exposure to environmental toxins like pollution and cigarette smoke. The antioxidants in beet greens help to neutralize these free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer.
Another health benefit of beet greens is their anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a wide range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Beet greens contain compounds like betaine and choline, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, they are a good source of dietary nitrates, which have been shown to lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
Beet greens are an incredibly nutritious and healthful addition to your diet. They are easy to find at most grocery stores, and they can be prepared in a variety of ways, from sautéing and steaming to adding to smoothies and salads. So go ahead and add some beet greens to your next meal – your body will thank you for it!
What is the healthiest way to eat beet greens?
Beet greens are a highly nutritious vegetable that is often underutilized in home cooking. These greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, potassium, and fiber. They also contain important antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help support overall health. But what is the healthiest way to eat beet greens?
The healthiest way to prepare beet greens is to sauté them. Sautéing beet greens allows you to cook them at a high heat and for a short amount of time which helps to retain the nutrients and flavors. Begin by washing the beet greens thoroughly and cutting off the thick stems. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and add garlic or shallots if desired. Then add the beet greens and sauté for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
Sautéed beet greens can be served alone as a side dish, or used as an ingredient in other dishes. They pair well with eggs, beans, grains, and pasta dishes. One delicious option is to fold the sautéed beet greens into scrambled eggs or an omelet for a nutritious breakfast. Another option is to toss the sautéed greens with pasta, walnuts, feta cheese, and red pepper flakes for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. They can also be used in a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and some protein.
It is also important to note that beet greens should be eaten in moderation as they contain oxalic acid. Oxalic acid can bind to minerals in the body such as calcium and iron, making them difficult to absorb, and potentially leading to deficiencies over time. To minimize the effects of oxalic acid, it is recommended to cook beet greens before consuming them.
Sautéing beet greens is the healthiest way to eat them as it helps to retain their nutrients and flavors. They can be eaten alone or incorporated into other dishes for added nutrition. However, it is important to consume them in moderation due to their oxalic acid content.
