Nothing Beets This
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BEETS // boost your energy level
Beets contain a significant amount of carbohydrates that provides fuel for energy and prolonged sports activities.
These are the natural building blocks of energy metabolism and beets provide them without any of the negative side effects of many other carbohydrate-heavy foods.
When the body has a sufficient amount of carbohydrates, it is easy to fuel all of the necessary bodily functions as well, including the important metabolic reactions that keep your organ systems functioning efficiently.
A few years ago I had the pleasure of working with my fabulous sis and that was the time I was introduced to our dear friend, beets. She loved beets so much then and still does to this day. She would always try to get me to eat them and I just couldn't get into. They tasted very "earthy' to me.
Sadly, it wasn't until a month or so ago, I learned to appreciate beets. I found an awesome bottled juice by Vim + Vigor and decided to research the most striking ingredient; beets.
What struck me is not only are beets a HEALTHY carbohydrate, but it would properly fuel the necessary body systems. I am currently training for the MS150 and with my newly formed nutritional lifestyle, I really must fuel properly, never cutting my body short of any ingredient it may need to perform well. The last thing I want to do is bodily harm; the current goal is the heal it. Being counterproductive thru poorly fueled exercise would not only really bum me out but it would harm me.
A fun fact for me when it comes to the MS150:
Cyclists who drank a single large serving (16oz) of beetroot juice were able to ride up to 20% longer, and let's be honest, I am going to need as much of an advantage as possible!
The reason for this boost in energy is because beets are high in natural nitrates which are converted to nitric oxide in the body...nitric oxide increases the efficiency of the mitochondria AKA your energy powerhouse.
Next time you're thinking about enduring a lengthy workout, down some beetroot juice, add it to your yogurt, smoothie, etc...it's really good!
If hearing me say smoothie made your ears perk, here you go!
"Nothing Beets This" Smoothie
1 small beet, skinned and sliced
10 strawberries
4 leaves of kale
1 banana
1 handful of goji berries
5+ mint leaves
1/2 cup almond milk
1 cup water
handful of ice
ENJOY!
If you are feeling generous, please donate to my MS150 page HERE!
Side note, I have decided to track down here how many days I have been free from a cold or sinus infection AKA how many days I have been IMMUNE SYSTEM HEALTHY!!
46 DAYS
-C