A recent study published revealed that Beetroot ( Beta vulgaris). It is also known as the table beet, garden beet or red beet. I know it simply at the beet. Although there are many varieties of beets, the version, Beta vulgaris is the most common known.This study showed that beets improved running performance in fit men and women.
Why is this ? Beetroot contains nitrates which has shown to increase running performance. It was a small double blind trial of 11 fit men and women. Runners ingested 200 grams of beetroot with 500mg of nitrates.
It was concluded that ingestion of whole beetroot which is nitrate rich improved running performance. There has always been a conflict whether nitrate containing foods are not good for running or exercise, this is the exact opposite outcome.
So what should you runners do ?
For those seeking performance benefits - obtain nitrates from whole vegetables such as beetroot.
Until tomorrow...