Are All Beets Created Equally?

—Jill Fandrich, PharmD, CRPh

Raw Beets Versus Pickled Beets:

Raw beets and pickled beets are two different forms of the same vegetable, offering distinct benefits. Here's a comparison of the benefits of raw beets and pickled beets:

1. Nutrient Content:

- Raw Beets: Raw beets are packed with essential nutrients such as dietary fiber, folate, potassium, and vitamin C. They also contain antioxidants called betalains, which help fight inflammation.

- Pickled Beets: While pickling beets can cause some nutrient loss, pickled beets still retain certain vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of dietary fiber and contain some vitamins and minerals like iron, manganese, and potassium.

2. Digestive Health:

- Raw Beets: The high fiber content in raw beets promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and supports regular bowel movements. It also helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

- Pickled Beets: Fermented pickled beets can offer additional digestive benefits as they contain probiotics, beneficial bacteria that promote gut health.

3. Blood Pressure and Heart Health:

- Raw Beets: The naturally occurring nitrates in raw beets have been shown to help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. The nitric oxide produced from these nitrates helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow.

- Pickled Beets: The nitrates present in pickled beets can also contribute to improved blood pressure. However, pickled beets may contain added salt, which can counteract the blood pressure-lowering effects.

4. Antioxidant Properties:

- Raw Beets: Raw beets are rich in antioxidants, especially betalains, which help neutralize harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in the body and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cancer.

- Pickled Beets: While the pickling process may cause a slight reduction in antioxidants, pickled beets still contain some antioxidant properties and can offer similar benefits.

5. Taste and Culinary Versatility:

- Raw Beets: Raw beets have a naturally sweet and earthy flavor. They can be grated and added to salads, roasted, juiced, or even used in smoothies.

- Pickled Beets: Pickled beets have a tangy and slightly sour taste due to the pickling brine. They are commonly used as a condiment in salads and sandwiches or enjoyed on their own as a side dish.

Ultimately, both raw beets and pickled beets offer distinct benefits. Raw beets are valued for their high nutrient content and digestive health benefits, while pickled beets provide a unique flavor, contain probiotics, and can still offer some nutritional advantages. It's beneficial to include both forms in a well-rounded diet to maximize their respective benefits.

Raw Beets Versus Powdered Beet Supplements:

1. Nutritional Content - Beets, which are root vegetables, are naturally rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, folate, potassium, and manganese. They also contain dietary fiber and antioxidants. On the other hand, powdered beet supplements are usually made by dehydrating and processing beetroot juice or extract. They can be concentrated sources of nutrients, providing a higher amount of specific compounds like nitrates.

2. Convenience - Beets require preparation and cooking, making them less convenient than powdered beet supplements. The supplements offer a more convenient option for obtaining the benefits of beets, especially for those who have limited time or don't enjoy the taste of beets.

3. Nitrate Content - Both beets and powdered beet supplements are known for their high nitrate content. Nitrates can be converted into nitric oxide in the body, which has been associated with improved blood flow, exercise performance, and cardiovascular health. However, the concentration of nitrates may be higher in beet supplements due to the dehydration and concentration process.

4. Taste and Texture - Beets have a distinct earthy and sweet taste, which some people enjoy while others find it off-putting. Powdered beet supplements often have a milder taste or can be mixed with other flavors, making them more palatable for some individuals.

5. Fiber Content - Beets are a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion, promote feelings of fullness, and support overall gut health. Whole beets contain more fiber than powdered beet supplements that are typically processed to isolate specific compounds.

6. Synergistic Benefits - Beets are whole foods that contain a variety of beneficial compounds that work together synergistically. The combination of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants found in beets may provide additional health benefits beyond what can be obtained from isolated compounds found in beet supplements.

In conclusion, while beets and powdered beet supplements share some similarities in terms of nutritional benefits, they also have differences in terms of convenience, taste, and overall nutritional content. Including both beets and beet supplements in a balanced diet can provide a wider array of nutrients and maximize their potential health benefits.

You can't "beet" that!

Like the multifaceted colors of a prism, so are the different forms of beets - humble, versatile, and bursting with vibrant flavors.

—Dr. Jill

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