Beetroot, also known as beet, is a vibrant and nutritious root vegetable that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions. One of the most popular ways to consume beetroot is by making a refreshing and delicious beetroot juice. Not only does this juice taste great, but it also contains several essential nutrients that can help increase blood and improve overall health. In this article, we will explore a simple and nutritious recipe for making beetroot juice to increase blood.
Gather the Ingredients
Before you start making beetroot juice, it is important to gather the necessary ingredients. You will need:
1. Fresh beetroots: Look for firm and fresh beetroots in your local grocery store or farmers market. The number of beetroots depends on the quantity of juice you want to make.
2. Lemon: Adding a squeeze of lemon to your beetroot juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps in the absorption of iron from the beets.
3. Water: You will need water to dilute the juice to your desired consistency.
Wash and Prepare the Beetroots
Once you have your ingredients ready, it is time to wash and prepare the beetroots for juicing. Start by washing the beetroots under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the leafy tops and roots, leaving about an inch of stem attached to the beetroot. This will ensure easy juicing and prevent a bitter taste.
Peel or Leave the Skin?
There is an ongoing debate about whether to peel the skin off the beetroots before juicing or leave it on. The skin of the beetroot is edible and contains additional nutrients. However, some people prefer to peel the beetroots to remove any earthy taste. If you choose to leave the skin on, make sure to wash the beetroots thoroughly. If you decide to peel them, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin.
Chop the Beetroots
Once the beetroots are cleaned and prepared, it is time to chop them into smaller pieces. Chopping the beetroots will make it easier for your juicer to extract the juice efficiently. Cut the beetroots into small chunks or thin slices, depending on the capacity of your juicer.
Juicing Process
Now that your beetroots are ready, you can start juicing them. Follow the steps below to extract the juice:
1. Set up your juicer: Place a glass or jug under the juicer’s spout to collect the juice.
2. Begin juicing: Feed the chopped beetroots into the juicer one at a time. Allow the juicer to extract the juice completely before adding the next piece.
3. Collect the juice: As the juicer extracts the juice, it will flow into the glass or jug placed under the spout. Keep juicing until all the beetroot pieces are used.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon
Once you have extracted all the beetroot juice, it is time to add a squeeze of lemon. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice directly into the beetroot juice. The acidity in the lemon juice not only adds a zesty flavor but also helps enhance the absorption of iron present in the beets.
Dilute the Juice
The next step involves diluting the beetroot juice to your desired consistency. Add water to the juice, starting with small amounts and gradually increasing until you reach the desired taste. Diluting the juice will make it easier to drink and adjust the flavor according to your preference.
Strain the Juice
To achieve a smoother texture, it is recommended to strain the juice before consumption. A fine-mesh strainer can help remove any fibrous or gritty particles, resulting in a refreshing and velvety juice. Pour the beetroot juice through the strainer into a glass or jug, gently pressing the pulp with a spoon to extract the remaining liquid.
Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade beetroot juice is now ready to be served and enjoyed. Pour the strained juice into a glass and add some ice cubes for a chilled experience. You can also garnish it with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint for an extra burst of flavor. Remember to stir the juice before drinking to distribute any settled pulp.
Benefits of Beetroot Juice
Drinking beetroot juice regularly can provide numerous health benefits. Here are some of the benefits associated with consuming beetroot juice:
Increased Blood and Hemoglobin Levels
Beetroot juice is known for its ability to increase blood and hemoglobin levels. This is because beetroots are rich in iron, which is an essential mineral required for the production of red blood cells. Increased blood levels can help prevent and reduce the risk of anemia.
Lower Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that beetroot juice can help lower blood pressure levels. The high content of nitrates present in beetroots is converted into nitric oxide in the body, which helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. This dilation of blood vessels can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
Improved Athletic Performance
Beetroot juice is a popular choice among athletes looking to enhance their performance. The nitrates present in beetroots can improve oxygen delivery to muscles, resulting in increased endurance and improved exercise performance. Drinking beetroot juice before a workout or physical activity can help boost energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Enhanced Digestion
Beetroot juice is rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes healthy bowel movements. Regular consumption of beetroot juice can prevent constipation and keep the digestive system functioning efficiently.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Beetroot juice contains betalains, which are natural pigments responsible for its vibrant red color. These betalains possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of chronic conditions like arthritis.
Conclusion
Incorporating beetroot juice into your regular diet can offer a multitude of benefits, including increased blood levels, lower blood pressure, improved athletic performance, enhanced digestion, and anti-inflammatory properties. The simple and nutritious recipe provided in this article can serve as an excellent starting point for enjoying the benefits of beetroot juice. So, grab some fresh beetroots, squeeze a lemon, and prepare yourself a glass of this revitalizing and healthful juice. Cheers to good health and increased blood!