Boost Your Body's Master Antioxidant with Beets

Boost Your Body's Master Antioxidant with Beets

 

  

Every day your liver processes and disarms hundreds, if not thousands, of toxic compounds that make their way into your body. While many of these toxins are essentially unavoidable (like pollution in the air we breathe), many are a direct result of our own choices.

Harmful compounds can enter your body through diet, alcohol consumption, pharmaceutical drugs, and the application of chemical substances on the skin.  In today's world, your liver has a big job to do in neutralizing these damaging substances.

But the great news is that certain foods can make the load on your liver lighter. And earthy, crimson-hued beets are one of the most powerful liver-protecting foods you can eat.

A recent study, published in the journal Carcinogenesis, found that beet fiber increases the activity of two important antioxidant enzymes in the liver (glutathione peroxidase andglutathione-S-transferase). This is critical, because glutathione is your body's master antioxidant and detoxifier.

As your liver breaks down and eliminates harmful compounds, dangerous free radicals are formed as a byproduct. Glutathione enzymes are there to neutralize these compounds. However, these enzymes can become depleted. That's why it's critical to consume glutathione-boosting foods - and beets are one of the best.

 
The earthy flavor and unique texture of beets also make them a culinary standout in any dish.My favorite way to enjoy beets is to roasted and sliced and served over fresh organic arugula, with walnuts, goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic and olive oil.

You can also add fresh, raw beets, greens and other vegetables to your Vitamix for a delicious healing smoothies.

 

Don't forget to pick up some these brightly-colored root vegetables the next time you're at the grocery store or farmer's market.

Your liver will love you for it!

Helping You "Beet" Disease, 
 

 

Kelley Herring  

CEO & Editor-in-Chief

Healing Gourmet