Beets are great for overall health.  Studies have linked beets to lowering bad cholesterol levels and triglycerides, while increasing good cholesterol levels.   This is why beets have a reputation for “cleaning the blood”.  They also do a great job fighting inflammation that is linked to conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis and Alzheimer’s.  Other nutrients found in beets include folic acid, manganese, vitamin B, iron, and potassium.

As I said before, they must be taken lightly.  Beet juice is too strong to drink by itself.  Apparently, it can even temporarily paralyze your vocal chords.  Fortunately, I’ve never been afflicted with this, nor do I ever hope to.  It can also turn your urine a little red, though this is normal, so don’t be afraid if this happens.

To play it safe, dilute the beet juice with other produce when using in your vegetable juicing recipes.  Always use beet juice in moderation.  Buy small beets so it’s easier to manage smaller amounts.  You can juice the green leaves too, but it is quite potent itself, so you may want to only add a little bit.

Here are some vegetable juicing recipes that use beet juice:

Carrots, Beet & Spinach Juice

• 4 carrots
• 1 small beet
• handful of spinach

Soothing Beet Juice

• 1 small beet
• 1 cucumber
• 3 celery stalks

Beet Zinger Juicing Recipe

The first time you try this juicing recipe, I suggest NOT using the garlic clove.  If you like the base of the recipe, add the garlic the second time.

• 4 carrots
• 1 small beet
• 1/2 inch fresh ginger
• 1/2 lemon
• 1 clove of garlic