The bloody beetroots
Functional fitness athletes are constantly searching for natural ways to enhance performance. One food gaining attention is the beetroot — a vibrant vegetable historically praised for its energy-boosting properties.
Why Beetroots Are More Than Just a Salad Ingredient
Beetroots aren’t only visually striking; they’re packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Beyond general wellness, beetroots have been shown to improve endurance and stamina, making them particularly appealing for CrossFitters and other high-intensity athletes.
The Science: Beetroots and Athletic Performance
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology examined the effects of beetroot juice on exercise performance. Eight active males consumed 500 mL of beetroot juice daily for six days before engaging in high-intensity workouts.
Key Findings from the Study
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Increased stamina: Participants improved endurance by up to 16%.
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More efficient oxygen use: Nitrates in beetroot helped the body use oxygen more efficiently, allowing athletes to sustain energy longer.
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Potential for long-term benefits: While promising, researchers noted the need for larger studies to confirm lasting effects and explore long-term dietary nitrate supplementation.
These results suggest that adding beetroots to your diet could provide a natural edge in endurance-based activities.
How Beetroots Fit Into a Paleo and CrossFit Diet
For those following Paleo or clean eating principles, beetroots are an ideal addition. If beetroot juice isn’t appealing, 200 grams of cooked beetroot delivers similar performance-enhancing benefits.
Easy Ways to Include Beetroots in Your Training Diet
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Roast or steam beets as a side dish.
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Blend beetroot juice into a pre-workout smoothie.
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Add beets to salads for a nutrient-rich, Paleo-friendly boost.
The Bottom Line: Boost Endurance the Natural Way
While beetroots won’t transform you into the fittest person on Earth overnight, they offer a legal, natural, and Paleo-approved strategy to support endurance and energy levels.
If you want to enhance athletic performance for the CrossFit Games or simply improve your everyday workouts, adding beetroots to your diet is a simple, tasty, and effective choice. Start incorporating them today and see the difference in your stamina and recovery.
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