Bulk Up With Beetroot!

Wed, 21 October 2015

When you think of ‘super foods’, beetroot doesn’t exactly spring to mind; but this beet is definitely one you shouldn’t miss out on if you’re looking to step it up in the health and nutrition stakes.

What are the Benefits?

One of the major benefits of beet juice it that it contains a colour pigment called betalain. This is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that also stimulates the function of liver cells and protects the liver and bile ducts.

For those working out; beetroot juice is packed with nitrates, which your body then converts to nitric oxide; a molecule that enhances blood vessel dilation thus increasing your blood flow capacity and lowering the amount of oxygen your muscles need.

 

Recipe: Beetroot & Ginger Juice

Makes: 2 Servings

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 large beet, peeled and cut into wedges
• 1 medium orange, peeled and quartered
• 3 kale leaves
• 1 medium apple (cut into wedges)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled)
• 3 slices of  fresh peeled ginger
• Ice cubes (optional)

·         1 tablespoon of seeds (chia and flaxseed)

·         1 scoop of protein (optional if looking to add extra protein)

Method:

Place the beet, orange, apple and carrots into your blender or Nutri-Bullet.

Chop up your kale leaves and ginger then add them in.

Next, add your seeds.

Finally add the ice cubes and scoop of protein.

Blend and enjoy! 

 

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TV3 weather presenter Deric Ó h’Artagáin is a man with a passion for fitness, heathy lifestyle and the great outdoors. As a qualified group instructor and personal trainer; he is a keen triathlete, adventure racer and avid kite-surfer. Having completed over fifty competitive races in the last five years; including the Dublin Marathon, London & Dublin triathlons, Glendalough open-water swim as well as the Gaelforce West, Wicklow & Killarney Adventure race series; Deric aims to complete an Ironman, undertake the Antarctic Ice Marathon and climb Africa’s highest mountain Kilimanjaro in 2016. The Limerick man aims to share his knowledge, experience and adventures along with his top training tips, nutritional recipes and guide to tackling the great outdoors. So, if you’re just a beginner or taking it to the next level; Deric is hoping to inspire you along your journey.