The Power of Beets!
Hey guys, so I've been implementing something new into my exercise regimen. I posted a snapchat of my current "pre workout" and I got a few questions and comments so I'd figure I'd share. Beet juice. Who would have thought the power this superfood has? Let me explain.
Beets contain a ton of nitric oxide - which is a natural gas that is produced in the body. I first heard of beets being used as a supplement from my trainer Evan, and then I heard about it a second time from my supervisor who is a Registered Dietician in that same week. Of course I was starting to become curious. The RD explained the many benefits of beets, and said it has been a secret weapon of athletes and bodybuilders. I decided to try it for myself and I have been using it before my intense workouts and I have definitely experienced the benefits for myself. I feel stronger, I don't feel fatigued as quickly in between sets, and I feel more energized overall. I drink the organic beet juice that you can find at any grocery store. You can also drink it after your workout to support faster recovery by removing lactic acid build-up. I do only 4 oz. but sometimes when I know I will be working out harder I do 8 oz. If you really can't tolerate the taste of beets, (it's not bad!) there is also powder forms available. If you are interested in the powder form, you can find it here.
In addition to exercise benefits, nitric oxide is beneficial for memory, your immune system, regulating blood pressure, reducing inflammation, improving your quality of sleep, and more. And as a little warning/side note, don't be alarmed when you first start to implement beets into your diet and you go to the bathroom and it looks like a crime scene. It happened to me and I had a mini heart attack thinking my monthly visit from mother nature came way early but I realized it was the beets. LOL. The pigment is called betanin and it is not harmful or should be of any concern.
If you guys try it out for the first time let me know! I would love to hear your experiences and feedback.