A small UK study has found that beetroot juice can significantly lower blood pressure. The experiment, featured on BBC Two's 'Trust Me, I'm a Doctor', tested the effects of beetroot, garlic, and watermelon on 28 volunteers with high blood pressure.
Participants had an average systolic blood pressure of 133.6 mmHg at the start. After consuming beetroot, their average dropped to 128.7 mmHg, while garlic yielded a similar result of 129.3 mmHg. Watermelon had a weaker effect, reducing it to 129.8 mmHg.
Dr Andy Webb of King's College London, who helped run the study, noted that the results align with larger studies. The drop in blood pressure could translate to a 10% reduction in the risk of stroke and heart attack if maintained.
The active ingredient in beetroot is nitrate, which is converted into nitric oxide in the body, causing blood vessels to dilate. Garlic contains allicin, which acts on the kidneys to open blood vessels. These compounds are also found in other vegetables like spinach, rocket, and onions.
