Behold the beautiful beet; the red ruby jewel of the vegetable kingdom. One glimpse ofits deep amethyst allure and it’s obvious thatthis bauble was surely fashioned to tempt!
Who could resist such a package? And who would want to once her curative secrets are revealed?
Benefits of the Almighty Beet
Betaine is the carotenoid responsible for the ruby red color of the beet. But underneath this pigment lies a vast network of phytochemical activity. Betaine significantly reduces homo-cysteine levels. Homocysteine is a toxic amino acid associated with cardiovascular disease. Betaine also helps brain function by increasing levels of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a derivative of menthionine, which is normally manufactured by the body. Supplementation of SAMe canbalance mood, improve mental acuity and has been used in the treatment of alcohol addiction and AIDS.
Betaine is a terrific antioxidant that can enhance athletic performance and improve stamina. It helps to optimize the utilization of oxygen by stimulating red blood production and lymph activity. It is our liver’s best friend. Beets detoxify the liver, improve its function and protect it from excessive alcohol consumption. Beet lovers swear it even adds to their longevity.
According to my friend, her grandmother used beets to prevent gallstones and to treat gout and jaundice. Fresh beet juice has a long history as a valuable elixir for anemia and disorders of the bladder and kidney. Today, research suggests using it to treat lung and prostate cancer.
When you juice beets you are downing a mineral brew that includes the likes of calcium, potassium, iron, copper, and sodium; along with folic, oxalic, succinic, and fumaric acids.
Beets are sweet and mild in flavor. According to herbalists and traditional Chinese medicine specialists, beets are capable of strengthening the heart, improving circulation and purifying the blood (by decongesting the vascular system);soothing the spirit (by reducing nervousness); moistening the intestines (helping to eliminate constipation); and promoting healthy menstruation (used with carrots, beets help regulate hormones).
This radiant gem is gorgeous on the outside, but even more fantastic for our insides.
So toss one in every juice you make!
DELICIOUS BEET RECIPES
Beet Vitality Cocktail
3oz Beet Juice
7oz Carrot Juice
2oz Parsley Juice
1 clove GarlicJuiced
½ inch Ginger Juiced
½ Lemon, Juiced
Use a vegetable juicer (citrus juicer for the lemon). Combine and enjoy!
Mama Maria’s Beet Salad
Ingredients
3 Beets
2 Stalks of Green Onion, chopped
½ Red Onion, thinly sliced
1 Large Fresh Orange or 1 small can of mandarin oranges
3 Tblsp Balsamic Vinegar
2 Tblsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 Tblsp Parsley, finely chopped
Sea Salt and Black Pepper to taste
Roast beets in 350 degree oven until tender
When cool peel and cut beets in half, then slice them and place in a large bowl with other ingredients.
Mix well and serve with warmed pita bread brushed with a little extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Oh so delicious!
Mama Maria’s Sautéed Beets
Ingredients
3 Beets with Tops
3 Cloves of Garlic, finely chopped
1 Tblsp Honey
2 Scallions
2 TblspExtra Virgin Olive Oil
2 Tblsp of Orange Zest
Sea Salt to taste
Roast beets in 350 degree oven until tender
When cool peel and cut beets in half, then slice them
Coarsely chop tops
Heat olive oil in a large sauce pan over medium heat, add garlic,cook for 2minutes
Add beet tops and cook until tender
Add remaining ingredients and stir over a low flame, cover andcook for 1-3 minutes
Bon Appetit!
