There’s no shortage of sports drinks on the market to help athletes rehydrate and replace electrolytes and carbohydrate stores. But how many of them can claim they help you exercise longer? Enter beetroot juice. Beetroot juice is not what you would consider a typical sports drink with its ruby red color that’s completely natural and free from food coloring. But research shows it could have an edge over commercial sports drinks by helping to boost exercise endurance.
Beetroot Juice and Exercise Endurance
In a study carried out by the University of Exeter and Peninsula Medical school, researchers gave a group of eight men a half liter of beetroot juice to drink each day for 6 days. Another group of men drank a placebo drink. The men then took cycling tests to measure their exercise endurance. The results?
The men that drank beetroot juice were able to cycle 16% longer than those who drank the placebo drink. The beetroot juice had another advantage over sports drinks. The men who drank the beetroot juice had a lower resting blood pressure afterward.
How Does Beetroot Juice Work?
This is a small study, but there are reasons why beetroot juice could boost exercise endurance. It’s rich in natural chemicals called nitrates that are converted to nitric oxide by the body. Nitric oxide helps to dilate blood vessels and reduce the number of oxygen muscles need during exercise. By dilating arteries, it also reduces resting blood pressure. In addition, it makes exercise seem easier. This may help you push yourself a little harder when working out.
Best of all, beetroot juice is natural without unhealthy additives, unlike many sports drinks. It’s a source of natural antioxidants that help to protect cells against oxidative damage and reduce inflammation. This may also help to reduce muscle soreness after exercise and speed up exercise recovery, although research is needed to confirm this. Some experts see it as a natural way to lower blood pressure, and the blood-pressure-lowering benefits last for several hours after drinking a glass. It’s also a good source of vitamin C and minerals and electrolytes.
Beetroot Juice vs. Sports Drinks
Unfortunately, beetroot juice is no less expensive than sports drinks. Seventeen ounces the amount the men drank each day before the cycling test, costs almost $5.00. On the other hand, if you’re trying to lower your blood pressure at the same time, it may be worth investing in a bottle. With its natural antioxidants, it’s certainly a healthier option than your typical sports drink, and it may help you exercise a little longer and work a little harder.
The Bottom Line?
If you’re looking for natural sports drinks and don’t mind shelling out a few bucks, beetroot juice may be your answer. It’s as good for your heart and blood vessels as it is for your hardworking muscles. It gives commercial sports drinks a run for their money.
References:
Nutraingredients.com. “Beetroot juice may boost endurance: Study”
Science Daily. “Beetroot Juice Boosts Stamina, New Study Shows”
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