The leaves of this extremely healthy vegetable also contain betalain, which also plays an important role in cancer prevention. They also contain vitamins A, C and K and minerals iron, zinc, manganese, potassium and magnesium, and they also contain dietary fiber, so they are excellent for the digestive system.
Thanks to the abundance of nutrients and antioxidants, beetroot leaves boost immunity, improve mental health, lower blood pressure and strengthen bones. Read about their healing properties below:
1. They help with indigestion
If you have any digestive problems, beetroot leaves are perfect for you! They are rich in fiber, so they perfectly stimulate the digestive system. In addition, they act as probiotics, feeding the good bacteria in the intestines, which favorably affects not only the health of the digestive system, but also overall health.
2. They improve mental health
By consuming these leaves, which contain vitamin B6, you will improve your mood and alleviate the symptoms of anxiety or depression. They also prevent damage to brain neurons thanks to vitamin K, and many studies have shown that this very vitamin can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
3. They reduce blood pressure and prevent heart diseases
Beetroot leaves contain nitrates that are converted into nitric oxide in the human body. This compound works by dilating blood vessels and stimulating circulation, which also has the effect of lowering blood pressure. Thus, they improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. They prevent osteoporosis and tooth decay
Calcium, magnesium and vitamin K, especially in combination with vitamin D, are essential for bone health. Beetroot leaves contain exactly these ingredients. Moreover, they also contribute to the protection of the teeth.
5. They help in the prevention and treatment of anemia
Did you know that beetroot leaves contain more iron than spinach? This means that by consuming them you can not only prevent but also cure anemia. Vitamin B6 contained in beetroot leaves helps in the formation of red blood cells.
6. They clean the body of toxins and the skin of impurities
Thanks to the wealth of vitamin C, one of the strongest antioxidants that also helps in the creation of collagen, beetroot leaves have a beneficial effect on the beauty and health of the skin. They also stimulate the cleaning of the liver from accumulated toxins, which is essential for healthy and clean skin.
How can you consume them?
Always use fresh and well-preserved beetroot leaves, preferably organic (if you don’t have beetroot in your garden). They are best eaten raw, but you can also steam them. However, do not cook them for a long time, because then you destroy most of their nutrients. You can wash and slice them and add them to smoothies, salads and pesto.