A cardiologist has named beetroot as the most “underrated” food for boosting heart health, saying it can work on the cardiovascular system in ways that surpass medication alone. Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, a private cardiologist in London and founder of the National Heart Clinic on Harley Street, said the common vegetable is one of the best foods for the cardiovascular system.
“Beetroot is one of those foods that looks simple, but works on your cardiovascular system in remarkable ways,” said Dr Lo Monaco, who is also author of Heart Saviour.
How Beetroot Works on the Body
Beetroot is rich in natural nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide, a molecule that tells blood vessels to relax. Dr Lo Monaco explained: “This means better circulation, lower blood pressure, and a healthier endothelium, the inner lining of your vessels.”
Cardiologists can measure arterial stiffness in clinic, and it is considered a significant predictor of future heart problems. “Beetroot helps your arteries stay elastic,” Dr Lo Monaco explained, “something medications alone can't always achieve.”
Additional Benefits for Muscles and Recovery
Beetroot's circulation-boosting qualities also help deliver more oxygen to muscles, including the heart, which can improve energy levels and overall cardiovascular performance. There is also a lesser-known recovery benefit. “Beetroot can reduce the damage caused when blood flow returns to the heart after being temporarily restricted,” Dr Lo Monaco explained.
For people managing existing health conditions, the case for adding beetroot to the diet gets even stronger. “Hypertension, diabetes, inflammation, high homocysteine - beetroot supports many of the pathways that become dysfunctional in these conditions,” Dr Lo Monaco added.
Brain Health and How to Eat It
The benefits extend beyond the heart. Research points to beetroot's positive effects on brain blood flow, something Dr Lo Monaco said is particularly relevant for ageing women, where vascular changes accelerate after the menopause.
Incorporating beetroot into a diet is not difficult. The vegetable retains much of its benefits in various forms, whether raw, roasted or even the vacuum-packed variety from the supermarket. Adding a few servings to weekly meals is a great place to start.
Dr Lo Monaco is careful to note it will not replace prescription medication, but it is a simple and affordable way to build a more consistent approach to heart health. “Beetroot actively supports vascular repair, arterial youth, and heart performance in ways most people never hear about,” he said. “Making small changes such as this is how you improve retention and longevity.”
