KangMed™ News

Red beet, a plant rich in nutrients, not only provides people with rich edible value, but also has certain medicinal value. Its special red pigment "betaine", betaine and beet fiber all play unique roles in the medical field.

1. Prevention of tumors

The anti-cancer effect of red beets is mainly due to the pigment extract in its roots, which is called E162 pigment or betalain. The main ingredients, betacyanidins and betalains, are widely used in cosmetics and drugs. Betalains are excellent in preventing tumors induced by chemical agents or ultraviolet light. Betalain is a natural antioxidant with a high ability to scavenge free radicals and can effectively resist damage caused by oxidative stress. Red beets are listed as one of the 30 cancer-preventing fruits and vegetables by the American Cancer Prevention Association.

2. Lower blood lipids

The fiber content of red beet extract is as high as 89%, of which 9% is soluble in water. Studies show that the fiber in red beets can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. Betalains also significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, while significantly increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. This fully proves that betalains and red beet fiber also have significant hypolipidemic effects.

3. Lower blood pressure

Consuming just 100 grams of red beet juice can significantly lower blood pressure within 24 hours and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The blood pressure-lowering effects of red beets are related to their high nitrate content. These nitrates are converted into the biological signal nitric oxide in the body, which helps to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow.

4. Lower blood sugar

Diabetes is caused by metabolic disorders in the body that lead to elevated blood sugar levels in the blood, and the pancreas is unable to secrete insulin normally to regulate blood sugar. Diet plays an important role in maintaining normal blood sugar levels, and it is also an important part of the treatment for diabetic patients. Red beets may be beneficial for people with diabetes, but more research is needed to confirm its specific effects.

5. Protect the liver

Betaine, a unique nutrient in red beets, can accelerate the body's absorption of protein, improve liver function, prevent cirrhosis, and is used to treat fatty liver diseases. Each hundred grams of beet contains about 1.2 grams of betaine, which is 3-4 times that of wolfberry and red dates.

In general, red beets not only have rich nutritional value, but also have certain medicinal value. Its role in preventing tumors, lowering blood lipids, lowering blood pressure, lowering blood sugar and protecting the liver provides comprehensive protection for people's health. However, further research and confirmation are needed for its specific medicinal effects.