You Can’t Beat the Beets: A Nutritional Powerhouse

In the world of health foods, beet microgreens have been gaining recognition for their exceptional nutritional value and unique health benefits. These tiny greens pack a punch, offering a concentrated source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Among their many beneficial compounds, one stands out in particular: betanin. In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of beet microgreens with a special focus on the remarkable compound betanin.

What Are Beet Microgreens?

Beet microgreens are the young seedlings of the beet plant (Beta vulgaris). These vibrant red leaves are harvested at an early stage of growth, usually when they are just a couple of inches tall. Despite their small size and extra long growth cycle (17 days!), they are loaded with essential nutrients that make them a valuable addition to your diet.

The Nutritional Profile of Beet Microgreens

Before diving into the specifics of betanin, let's take a look at the overall nutritional profile of beet microgreens:

• Rich in Vitamins: Beet microgreens are a great source of vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Vitamin A supports healthy vision, vitamin C boosts the immune system, and vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone health.
  

• Mineral Abundance: They are abundant in minerals like potassium, manganese, and calcium. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, manganese supports bone health, and calcium is essential for strong teeth and bones.
  

• Fiber Content: Beet microgreens are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
  

  The Spotlight on Betanin

Betanin is the natural pigment responsible for the deep red hue found in beets and, by extension, beet microgreens. Beyond its role as a food colouring agent, betanin offers several health benefits:

• Powerful Antioxidant: Betanin is a potent antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. By neutralizing free radicals, it reduces the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer and heart disease.
  

• Liver Support: Research suggests that betanin may support liver health by aiding in the detoxification process. A healthy liver is vital for overall well-being as it helps remove toxins from the body.
  

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Betanin has shown anti-inflammatory effects, potentially alleviating conditions like arthritis and reducing the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases.
  

• Heart Health: Consumption of betanin-rich foods has been linked to lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and improved cardiovascular health. These benefits can contribute to a decreased risk of heart disease.
  

• Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest that betanin may have a protective effect on brain cells, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
  

• Eye Health: This type of plant pigment may also benefit eye health by protecting the retina from oxidative damage, potentially reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Incorporating Beet Microgreens into Your Diet

Besides the myriad health benefits of beet microgreens, they taste great. They have a slightly sweet and earthy flavour that is close to the taste of beet root. Let's explore some delicious ways to incorporate these earthy, sweet, beauties into your diet:

• Salads: Toss beet microgreens into your salads to add a peppery flavour and a burst of nutrition.
  

• Smoothies: Blend beet microgreens with other greens and fruits for a nutrient-packed green smoothie.
  

• Sandwiches and Wraps: Use them as a crunchy and nutritious addition to sandwiches and wraps. Pile them on!
  

• Garnish: Sprinkle beet microgreens on top of soups, omelettes, or grilled dishes for a colourful and flavourful garnish.
  

• Juicing: Juice beet microgreens with other vegetables for a vibrant and healthy homemade juice. Delicate greens can only be juiced in a 'cold press', 'slow' or 'masticating juicer. If you don’t have this kind of juicer, stick to smoothies).
  

Beet Microgreens are a premium crop and are hard to find due to their long growth cycle, expensive seeds and low yield per tray. How much is a serving? I recommend using up to 15g at a time. Your Oakville Microgreens beet clamshell is 2-3 servings of beets. In fall and winter months, one of my favourite ways to use beet micro greens is to put a little pile on my roasted butternut squash & sweet potato soup. It’s the colours of fall in a bowl!

Beet microgreens are a nutritional powerhouse, offering an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health. The star of the show, betanin, adds to their allure by providing unique health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and liver-supportive properties. By incorporating these vibrant greens into your diet, you can enjoy their delicious flavour while reaping the numerous health advantages they offer. So, embrace the beet microgreen revolution and boost your well-being one tiny leaf at a time.