- Beetroot contains betaine, a substance that relaxes the mind and is used to treat depression. It also contains trytophan (also found in chocolate!) which contributes to a sense of well being.
- The Romans considered beetroot an aphrodisiac (it’s rich in the mineral boron which is important in the production of human sex hormones). The belief persists to this day that if a man and a woman eat from the same beetroot, they will fall in love (with each other, presumably.)
- It’s an excellent source of folic acid and is therefore recommended to women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- Cooked beetroot is a great source of folate that can protect you against high blood pressure, Alzheimer’s and dementia. It is also crucial to the development of a baby’s spinal cord during the first three months of pregnancy, so a good intake of folate is important to prevent spinal cord defects such as spina bifida.
- Beetroot is a naturally environmentally-friendly crop, rarely needing treatment with pesticides.
If you're still unsure about trying beets (why?!) then why don't you have a look over these recipes to get your taste buds tingling?
Borscht Soup - A classic beetroot soup originating from Poland.
Beetroot, Avocado and Goats Cheese Salad served with Parma Ham - The combination is. peeeerfect.
Beetroot and Onion Chutney - I heart this so much.
Beetroot & Wild Mushrooms Tartlet in Filo Pastry - Why wouldn't you?
But my favourite easy way to curb my Beetroot craving? Couple of slices of whole meal bread, several slices of beetroot dipped in malt vinegar arranged on top, salt, pepper and a generous sprinkling of cheddar cheese... Toasted of course.
All information comes from www.lovebeetroot.co.uk .... Yeah, thats right people, they've even got their own website. Booyah.