Evidence supporting the use of: Beet
For the health condition: Circulation (to the brain)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Beet (Beta vulgaris), particularly in the form of beetroot juice, has gained scientific attention for its potential to support circulation, including cerebral (brain) blood flow. The primary mechanism involves the high concentration of dietary nitrates found in beets. These nitrates are converted in the body to nitric oxide, a molecule known to relax and dilate blood vessels, thus improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure. Several small randomized controlled trials and observational studies have shown that consumption of beetroot juice can enhance cerebral blood flow in both young adults and older individuals. For example, studies using MRI-based imaging have demonstrated increased perfusion in the frontal cortex after beetroot juice supplementation, which may have implications for cognitive function and age-related cognitive decline. However, the evidence is not yet robust or conclusive, as most studies are short-term, involve small sample sizes, and often focus on surrogate markers (such as blood flow or blood pressure) rather than clinical outcomes like improvements in cognition or prevention of stroke. While beetroot is not a replacement for medical treatment, the current scientific literature does provide moderate support for its use as a dietary approach to improve vascular health and potentially brain circulation due to its nitrate content.

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