With high blood pressure (hypertension) affecting millions of Black people in the UK, many Nigerians are turning to natural remedies like beetroot juice. But does it actually work?
💡 What’s the Gist?
Beetroot juice is marketed heavily as a health booster — especially for lowering blood pressure. Some research, including studies supported by the British Heart Foundation, shows promising results. But let’s keep it real: the evidence isn’t strong enough yet to make beetroot juice a must-have in your daily diet.
🧪 Why the Hype?
Beetroot contains natural nitrates, which your body converts into nitric oxide — a compound that helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can reduce blood pressure. But beetroot isn’t the only source. Other familiar foods like ugu (fluted pumpkin), spinach, celery, kale, bananas, and even strawberries also contain nitrates and similar nutrients.
Beetroot also packs a punch with:
- Flavonoids
- Polyphenols
- Potassium
All of which support heart health. But whether beetroot is better than other fruits and veggies? That’s still up for debate.
🥗 So, Should You Be Drinking It?
Here’s the lowdown for Naijas in the UK:
- 🍠Beetroot is good — but not magic. It’s best as part of a balanced diet.
- 🥤 A 150ml glass of beetroot juice counts as one of your 5-a-day and already contains about 10g of natural sugar.
- 🚫 Go easy on “beetroot shots” — they may be packed with nitrates but also with sugar.
- 🧂 If you’re buying pickled beetroot, check labels for added salt and sugar.
- 🍽️ Eating it whole is better than juicing — more fibre, fewer sugars.
🚨 If You’re on BP Meds…
Naijas taking blood pressure medication: talk to your GP first before adding beetroot juice to your routine. Too much could drop your BP too low, and that’s dangerous too.
🛡️ Final Word from Naija UK Connect:
Beetroot is nice to have, not must have. Eat a wide variety of vegetables and keep active. Your jollof rice plate is fine — just balance it with greens, less salt, and regular check-ups. ❤️🇳🇬
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