Tiny White Worms in Strawberries? Here’s What They Really Are (And Whether You Should Panic)

 

You’re washing strawberries, feeling virtuous for choosing fresh fruit—then you see it: tiny white worms wriggling out of the berries in your saltwater bath.
Your stomach drops. Your snack is ruined. And you wonder: “Did I just eat bugs? Are these safe? Do I throw everything away?”
First, take a breath.
This is far more common—and less dangerous—than you think.
Let’s break down what’s really happening, so you can decide calmly whether to rinse, toss, or enjoy your berries without fear.

What Are Those Tiny White “Worms”?
They’re almost certainly fruit fly larvae—most often from the spotted wing drosophila, a tiny fly that lays eggs inside soft fruits like:
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Blackberries
These flies pierce the skin of ripening fruit and deposit eggs. The larvae hatch and feed on the berry from the inside—completely hidden until you soak them.

Key fact: Their presence does NOT mean the fruit is

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spoiled, rotten, or unsafe. It simply means it’s fresh, untreated produce from a natural growing environment.

Why Does Salt Water Make Them Appear?

The saltwater soak doesn’t create the problem—it reveals it.
Salt irritates the larvae, causing them to squirm out of the fruit.
Without soaking, you’d likely never notice them—and may have eaten them unknowingly many times before.
This is why viral “cleaning hack” videos go viral—they make the invisible visible.

Reality check: Nearly all non-organic berries contain trace insect matter. The FDA even allows a certain amount per serving—it’s considered unavoidable in agriculture.

Are They Safe to Eat?
Yes—in most cases.
Fruit fly larvae are not parasitic—they don’t live in humans.
They pose no known health risk if accidentally consumed.
Your stomach acid would destroy them instantly.
That said, if the idea disgusts you (and it does for most people!), that’s valid

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too. Food safety includes psychological comfort.

How to Clean Berries Properly (Without Wasting Food)

Step-by-Step Soak Method:

Fill a bowl with cold water + 1–2 tbsp salt (or vinegar).
Submerge berries for 5–10 minutes (no longer—berries absorb water and get mushy).
Gently swish to dislodge debris.
Rinse thoroughly under cool running water.
Pat dry with a towel or use a salad spinner.
Pro tip: Don’t soak berries until you’re ready to eat them—moisture speeds up spoilage.

 

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When to Toss vs. When to Keep
Situation
Action
A few tiny larvae, otherwise firm, fragrant berries
Rinse well and eat!
Berries are mushy, moldy, or smell sour
Toss—spoilage is the real risk
You’re immunocompromised or pregnant
Err on caution—rinse thoroughly or choose frozen
You’re deeply uncomfortable eating them
Trust your gut—food should bring joy, not anxiety
Don’t waste food unnecessarily: One study found that over 50% of “bug-free”

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berries still had microscopic larvae—you just couldn’t see them!

Prevention Tips for Future Batches
Buy organic or local—often picked riper and handled less
Eat berries within 2–3 days of purchase
Store dry in the fridge—line container with paper towels to absorb moisture
Freeze extras—freezing kills any hidden larvae and preserves nutrients

Final Thoughts: Nature Isn’t Sterile—And That’s Okay
Finding larvae in berries isn’t a sign of poor quality—it’s a reminder that your food comes from soil, sun, and living ecosystems, not sterile labs. Even the cleanest farms can’t eliminate every insect.
So if you see those little wigglers, don’t panic. Rinse, dry, and enjoy your berries—or compost them if your peace of mind matters more.
Because at the end of the day, real food is imperfect, alive, and worth savoring—bugs and all.
Have you found larvae in your berries? Share how you handled it below—we’re all learning together

Doctors reveal that eating okra regularly can cause… See more

 

You quietly add okra to your meals every day, believing it’s one of the healthiest vegetables around, yet lately you notice bloating, discomfort, or even strange digestive changes that make you feel uneasy. It’s frustrating because something “good” shouldn’t make you feel this way, right? The discomfort builds, and you start wondering if your daily habit might be the hidden cause. But here’s what most people don’t realize—and what I’ll reveal by the end—okra isn’t harmful for everyone, but how you eat it can make all the difference.

What Makes Okra Healthy and Why People Eat It So Often

Okra, also known as lady’s finger, is packed with nutrients that many older adults find appealing. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and plant compounds that support general wellness.

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Here’s why it’s so popular
It helps support digestion due to its fiber content
It may help maintain balanced blood sugar levels according to some studies
It contains antioxidants that protect cells from daily stress

But here’s the catch… not all “healthy foods” work the same way for every body.

And that’s where things start to get interesting.

Can Eating Okra Regularly Cause Digestive Problems

Let’s talk honestly.

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Many people—especially older adults—experience digestive discomfort after eating okra frequently.

Why?

Okra contains a type of carbohydrate called fructans. These are known to cause gas and bloating in sensitive individuals. Research on digestive  health suggests that  foods high in certain fermentable carbs can lead to discomfort, especially for people with sensitive digestion.

You might notice
A bloated feeling after meals
Increased gas
Mild stomach cramps

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But that’s not all…

The slimy texture of okra, while beneficial for some, can also slow digestion in others, leading to that heavy feeling in the stomach.

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The Surprising Link Between Okra and Kidney Stones

Here’s something many people don’t expect.

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Okra is relatively high in oxalates. These are natural compounds found in many vegetables, but in excess, they may contribute to kidney stone formation in some individuals.

According to general nutritional research
High oxalate intake may increase the risk of calcium oxalate stones
People with a history of kidney stones should be cautious

Now, this doesn’t mean okra is dangerous.

But eating it every single day, especially in large amounts, may not be ideal if you are already at risk.

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Does Okra Affect Blood Sugar Too Much

This is where things get confusing.

Okra is often praised for helping stabilize blood sugar. Some small studies suggest it may slow sugar absorption.

But here’s the reality…

If you are already managing blood sugar levels carefully, eating large amounts of okra consistently without balancing your diet could lead to unexpected fluctuations.

Why?

Because no single food works alone. Your body responds to the entire meal, not just one ingredient.

This is the part many people overlook.

Who Should Be More Careful With Okra Intake

Let’s make this very practical.

Some people should pay closer attention when eating okra regularly

You may need to be cautious if you
Have a sensitive digestive system
Experience frequent bloating or gas
Have a history of kidney stones
Are managing blood sugar with strict dietary plans

Here’s a quick comparison to make it clearer

Situation	Okra Intake Suggestion
Healthy digestion	Moderate daily intake is usually fine
Sensitive stomach	Limit frequency and portion size
Kidney stone history	Avoid daily large amounts
Blood sugar concerns	Combine with balanced meals

The key word here is moderation.

Common Mistakes When Eating Okra Daily

This is where many people go wrong.

They assume “healthy” means “eat as much as you want.”

That’s simply not true.

Here are common mistakes
Eating large portions every day without variety
Cooking okra in unhealthy ways like deep frying
Not drinking enough water alongside high fiber foods
Ignoring how your body feels after eating it

But here’s the good news…

These are easy to fix.

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How to Eat Okra Safely and Still Get Benefits

You don’t need to avoid okra completely.

Instead, follow these simple steps

Start with small portions
Observe how your body reacts
Rotate with other vegetables like spinach, carrots, or zucchini
Cook it in healthier ways such as steaming or light sautéing
Drink enough water to support digestion

And most importantly…

Listen to your body. It tells you more than any trend online.

The Truth Most People Miss About “Healthy Foods”

Here’s the deeper truth.

No single food—no matter how healthy—should dominate your daily diet.

Nutrition experts often emphasize variety because your body needs a wide range of nutrients, not just what one vegetable offers.

So if you’ve been eating okra every day thinking it’s the “perfect solution”…

It might be time to rethink that habit.

Actionable Tips You Can Start Today

Let’s make this simple and practical

Try this daily routine
Alternate okra with at least 3 other vegetables during the week
Keep portions moderate (about 1 cup per serving)
Pay attention to any digestive discomfort
Stay hydrated throughout the day

Small changes like these can make a big difference over time.

Conclusion

Okra is not a bad food. In fact, it can be a very nutritious part of your diet.

But eating it every day without balance may lead to digestive discomfort, increased oxalate intake, or unexpected reactions—especially as we get older.

The smartest approach is simple
Eat a variety of foods
Listen to your body
Adjust your habits gradually

That’s how you protect your health in the long run.

FAQ

Is it safe to eat okra every day

For most people, small amounts are fine. However, daily large portions may cause digestive discomfort or other issues in sensitive individuals.

Can okra cause bloating

Yes, due to its fiber and certain carbohydrates, okra can lead to gas and bloating in some people.

Should people with kidney concerns avoid okra

They don’t need to avoid it completely, but moderating intake is recommended due to its oxalate content.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding your dietary choices and personal health conditions.

How to Tell If an Egg Came from a Healthy Chicken: 6 Signs of Superior Quality

 

When you crack open an egg in the kitchen, have you ever wondered about the life of the chicken that laid it? The truth is, the health and living conditions of a chicken have a direct impact on the nutritional value, taste, and safety of its eggs. By learning how to identify high-quality eggs, you can make smarter food choices for your family and ensure you’re getting the best nutrition possible.In this guide, we’ll explore six clear signs that reveal whether your egg came from a healthy, well-cared-for chicken.1. The Shell Is Strong and SmoothA strong eggshell is the first sign of a healthy hen. Healthy chickens produce eggs with shells that are:Firm to the touch – You shouldn’t be able to dent it easily with your fingers.Evenly colored – No large discolorations or faded spots.Free from cracks – Weak shells may indicate poor nutrition, particularly a calcium deficiency in the hen’s diet.Tip: Fresh farm eggs usually have thicker shells compared

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to mass-produced supermarket eggs because the hens are better fed and less stressed.2. The Egg White (Albumen) Is Thick and ClearWhen you crack the egg into a bowl, pay attention to the egg white:A thick, gelatinous white that stays close to the yolk shows freshness and good hen health.A thin, watery white could indicate an older egg or a hen with poor nutrition.Healthy hens fed on a balanced diet rich in protein and minerals produce eggs with a higher-quality albumen.3. The Yolk Is Bright and Stands TallA vibrant yolk is one of the most obvious indicators of superior quality:Color: A deep orange or rich golden yellow usually means the hen had access to grass, bugs, and natural feed. Pale yellow yolks often come from chickens raised on grain-only diets.Shape: A healthy yolk should be firm and rounded, not flat.Texture: Yolk membranes from healthy hens are stronger, which keeps the yolk from breaking easily.Fun fact: The color comes from carotenoids in the hen’s diet—so the more varied and natural the diet, the richer the yolk color.4. Minimal or No Spots and Blood SpecksSmall blood or protein spots inside an egg are not harmful, but excessive spotting can indicate stress or poor flock management. Healthy chickens with stable environments tend to produce eggs with clean, uniform appearance inside and out.5. The Egg Smells FreshA fresh, healthy egg will have no strong odor when raw. Any sulfuric or rotten smell means the egg is old or contaminated.If the hen is healthy and the egg is fresh, there should be no noticeable smell even after boiling.6. The Egg Passes the Water TestAn easy at-home trick:Place the egg in a bowl of water.Fresh and high-quality eggs will sink and lie flat at the bottom.Older or lower-quality eggs will stand upright or float due to increased air pockets inside.Healthy hens lay eggs with less air space inside because their eggs are fresher and better formed.Why Healthy Chickens Produce Better EggsHealthy chickens are typically:Allowed to roam and forage outdoors (pasture-raised).Fed a balanced diet with natural supplements.Raised in low-stress, clean environments.This lifestyle directly influences egg nutrition—higher omega-3 fatty acids, more vitamins A and E, and better flavor.Bottom LineIf you want the best eggs for your health and cooking, pay attention to shell strength, yolk color, egg white thickness, smell, and freshness. Choosing eggs from trusted local farms or certified organic sources is the best way to ensure they came from happy, healthy chickens.

Doctors reveal that eating eggs in the morning causes …

 

Here is a comprehensive look at what really happens when you start your day with eggs.

1. Long-Lasting Energy Without the Crash
Eggs are packed with high-quality protein and healthy fats. Unlike sugary cereals, pastries, or white toast, eggs do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar followed by an energy crash. Instead, they digest slowly, providing a steady release of energy that keeps you alert and productive for hours.

The protein in eggs breaks down into amino acids, which fuel tissue repair, muscle maintenance, and essential bodily processes. Many people who switch to an egg-based breakfast report feeling less mid-morning fatigue and greater focus at work or school.

2. Reduced Hunger and Fewer Cravings
Protein is the most satiating nutrient, and eggs are full of it. Eating eggs in the morning triggers the release of hormones that signal fullness to the brain. This natural appetite control leads to reduced snacking and lower calorie intake throughout the day.

Studies consistently show that individuals who eat eggs for breakfast consume fewer calories at lunch and beyond compared to those who eat carbohydrate-heavy morning meals.

3. Support for Healthy Weight Loss
Because eggs curb hunger and reduce overall calorie consumption, they are a powerful tool for weight management. Replacing a bagel or bowl of sugary cereal with eggs can significantly cut daily calories without leaving you feeling deprived.

Additionally, protein has a higher thermic effect than carbohydrates or fats, meaning your body burns more calories simply digesting it. This slight metabolic boost supports long-term weight loss efforts.

4. Improved Brain Function and Mental Clarity
Eggs are one of the best dietary sources of choline, a nutrient essential for brain health. Choline is used to produce acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for memory, mood regulation, and concentration.

Doctors note that children, students, and professionals who eat eggs in the morning often experience sharper focus and better cognitive performance throughout the day. The B vitamins in eggs also help reduce mental fatigue and support a healthy nervous system.

5. Muscle Maintenance and Growth

Eggs are a complete protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids the body cannot produce on its own. This makes them ideal for muscle repair and growth.

Whether you are an athlete, physically active, or an older adult hoping to preserve muscle mass, starting the day with eggs provides the building blocks your body needs to stay strong and metabolically healthy.

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6. Better Heart Health Than Previously Believed
For decades, eggs were avoided due to their cholesterol content. However, modern research has overturned this thinking. For most healthy individuals, dietary cholesterol has only a modest impact on blood cholesterol levels.

In fact, eggs can raise HDL—the “good” cholesterol—which helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, and antioxidants that support cardiovascular health. Doctors now agree that moderate egg consumption (one to two eggs per day) is safe for the vast majority of people.

7. A Nutrient-Dense Powerhouse
Eggs are often described as a “natural multivitamin.” A single egg contains a remarkable range of essential nutrients:

Vitamin A for eye health and immunity

Vitamin D for bones and immune function

Vitamin B12 for nerve health and red blood cells

Selenium, a powerful antioxidant

Iron for oxygen transport

Zinc for immune support

Eating eggs in the morning ensures your body receives these critical nutrients early, setting the stage for a healthy day.

8. A Stronger Immune System
The combination of high-quality protein, vitamin D, selenium, and zinc in eggs works together to strengthen the body’s defenses. Consistent nutrition is key to immune resilience, and starting the day with eggs helps your body stay prepared to fight off infections and illness.

9. Healthier Skin, Hair, and Nails
Eggs contain biotin and protein, both essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. Biotin supports keratin production, while protein helps preserve skin elasticity and aids in tissue repair. Over time, regular egg consumption can contribute to stronger nails, shinier hair, and a more radiant complexion.

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10. Protection for Long-Term Eye Health
Eggs are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin—two powerful antioxidants that accumulate in the retina. These compounds help protect the eyes from harmful blue light and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Doctors often recommend eggs as part of a vision-supporting diet.

11. Stabilized Blood Sugar Levels
Unlike refined carbohydrates, eggs do not cause sharp spikes in blood glucose. This makes them an excellent choice for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. Stable blood sugar means fewer energy crashes, reduced irritability, and better concentration throughout the day.

12. Convenience and Versatility
Eggs are quick to prepare, affordable, and endlessly versatile. Whether boiled, scrambled, poached, or baked into an omelet with vegetables, they fit seamlessly into even the busiest morning routine. This practicality makes it easier to maintain a healthy breakfast habit.

Are There Any Risks?
For the vast majority of healthy adults, eggs are safe and beneficial. However, doctors note a few considerations:

Individuals with specific medical conditions should follow their healthcare provider’s guidance.

Cooking methods matter—frying eggs in unhealthy oils reduces their nutritional benefits.

Balance is key; eggs should be part of a varied, nutrient-rich diet.

The Bottom Line
Doctors now confirm what many nutritionists have long suspected: eating eggs in the morning is one of the smartest choices you can make for your health. From sustained energy and appetite control to improved brain function, heart health, and immune support, eggs provide a powerful nutritional foundation for the day ahead.

Far from being harmful, eggs are widely recognized as one of the most complete and beneficial breakfast foods available. If you are looking for a simple, affordable, and scientifically supported way to improve your daily nutrition, starting your morning with eggs is a delicious step in the right direction.

How Often You Should Really Shower: What Experts Want You to Know

 

Showering is a part of daily life for most people—but is showering every single day actually necessary? The answer may surprise you. Dermatologists, hygiene experts, and health researchers all agree: how often you should shower depends on your body, your lifestyle, and even the climate you live in. There is no one-rule-fits-all, but there are guidelines that can help you find the right balance.

Below is everything you need to know about how often you should shower—without stripping your skin, upsetting your natural oils, or compromising your hygiene.

Why Showering Too Often Can Be a Problem
Many people don’t realize that daily showers can do more harm than good, especially long, hot ones.

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Over-showering can:

Strip the skin of protective oils
Cause dryness, irritation, or eczema flare-ups
Disrupt your microbiome (the healthy bacteria that protect your skin)
Lead to brittle hair
Increase itchiness
Your skin and hair need natural oils to stay healthy. When you remove them too often, your body may overproduce oil—ironically making you feel more greasy.

So How Often Should You Shower?
1. Most People: 2–4 Times Per Week
For the average adult who works indoors, showers after workouts, and has no major skin issues, showering 2 to 4 times a week is enough to stay clean and healthy.

This schedule maintains hygiene without drying out the skin.

2. If You Exercise or Sweat Heavily: Daily or After Workouts
If you:

Work out regularly
Have a physically demanding job
Live in a hot, humid climate
Sweat more than average
…then showering after sweating is important for preventing:

Body odor
Bacterial growth
Breakouts
Fungal infections
In this case, a quick daily rinse—especially of sweaty areas—may be beneficial.

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3. For People With Dry or Sensitive Skin: Every 2–3 Days
If your skin is prone to dryness, eczema, or irritation, showering less often helps your natural oils rebuild and protect your skin barrier.
Using lukewarm water and gentle cleansers is essential.

4. For Older Adults: 1–3 Times Per Week
As we age, skin tends to become thinner and drier. Experts recommend bathing less often to avoid irritation.
Clean the essential areas daily (face, armpits, groin), but full showers can be spaced out.

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5. Babies and Young Children: 2–3 Times Per Week
Children don’t need daily showers unless they’re visibly dirty. Their skin is even more sensitive to drying out.

What If You Prefer Daily Showers?
If showering daily helps you feel refreshed, that’s perfectly fine—just do it in a skin-friendly way:

Keep showers short (5–10 minutes)
Use lukewarm water instead of hot
Choose gentle, moisturizing soaps
Moisturize right after drying off
Avoid washing hair every day unless necessary
These small steps prevent over-drying while still letting you enjoy your routine.

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Signs You’re Showering Too Often
You may need to cut back if you notice:

Excessive dryness
Flaky or itchy skin
Redness or irritation
Dull or brittle hair
Tightness after showering
These are signals that your skin barrier is weakening.

Signs You Should Shower More Often
On the other hand, increase your frequency if you experience:

  

Strong body odor
Persistent sweat
Body acne
Greasy skin or hair
Itching in skin folds
Lifestyle plays a huge role here.

The Bottom Line
There’s no universal rule for how often you should shower. The right number depends on your body, your habits, and your climate.

But for most adults:

 2–4 showers per week is ideal.
 Daily showers are fine if done gently.
 Adjust based on your skin, sweat level, and comfort.

The best shower routine is the one that keeps you healthy, clean, and comfortable—without harming your skin.

Proven Health Benefits of Beets and Fermented Beets (Science Based)e

 

Beets have amazing health benefits and have an important place in a healthy diet. Beets are a sweet root vegetable that are full of important vitamins and minerals. Both the red beet root and the beetroot greens can be eaten hot or cold in delicious salads, soups and meals.

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You can also juice beetroot to get a concentrated shot of its nutrients to take advantage of its powerful health-boosting properties. Studies have shown that the health benefits of beets include detoxing your body, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, improving heart heath and stamina, and boosting brain function.

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Why You May Want to Eat Fermented Beets

Fermented beets have many benefits to your health because they contain probiotics or “good” bacteria. These microorganisms help to balance the microbiota in your gut which improves your overall health. One scientific study found that fermented beetroot is especially good for you because it can fight oxidative stress. It also contains the Lactobacillus bacteria which is very beneficial for your gut.

Many studies point to the effectiveness of probiotics to restore the microflora of your gut. The British Journal of Nutrition reported that probiotics help to strengthen the gut against harmful bacteria and they have a positive impact on the health of the large intestine.

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Many researchers point to the fact that the health of your gut and digestive system is closely linked to your immune system. Probiotics stimulate the immune system and inhibit the growth of bacterial infections.

Health

In this article, you will find out what science has to say on the amazing ways beetroot can improve your health. You will also find some practical tips on how to incorporate more beets into your diet to help protect your health in many ways.

At the end of the article you’ll find an easy recipe of fermented beets with many health benefits.

The Nutritional Value of Beets

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Beets are a rich source of nutrients that are needed for a healthy body. For example, beetroot contains vitamins A, C and B-group vitamins. They are also a good source of calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and manganese, as well as fiber.

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It’s not just the roots of beets that are good for you. The tops, or greens, of beets are also full of fiber, minerals, and vitamins and are one of its healthiest parts. In fact, according to NutritionalData.com, just 1/2 cup of raw beet greens gives you almost all of your recommended daily amount of vitamin K, which is essential for healthy blood, strong bones, and in preventing heart disease. Beet greens also contain a high amount of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, as well as nutrients like potassium, manganese, iron, and fiber, all of which are necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The main health benefits of beets come from the pigment betalains, which give them the dark rich color. According to a study, betalains have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can improve your health in a number of ways.

Let’s look at the many ways that beetroot can help boost your health and help keep you feeling great and full of energy.

The Health Benefits of Beets

Beets help to detox your entire body

The powerful antioxidants in beets can help to detoxify your whole body and prevent disease. Beetroot contains compounds that support detoxification in the body and can help to strengthen the immune system.

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The journal Nutrients published extensive research into the antioxidant properties of beets and found that as well as betalains, there are many other antioxidants in beetroot. These can help to break down toxins in your body so that they can be easily flushed out. The research also found that beetroot extracts help to get rid of free radicals from your body cells.

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In fact, studies have shown that juiced beetroot is one of the most potent antioxidant drinks from all vegetable and fruit juices.

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So, to help your body get rid of harmful toxins and prevent developing chronic diseases, make sure and regularly consume beets as part of a healthy diet.

Beet juice lowers blood pressure

Beets also have the potential to lower your blood pressure naturally. The reason that beetroot is good for hypertension is due to its content of inorganic nitrate. When you consume beets, the nitrate content is converted into nitric oxide which helps to improve blood flow. This has a beneficial effect on your cardiovascular system and helps to reduce blood pressure.

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The blood pressure-lowering effect of beets was proved in a study published in the Nutrition Journal. The researchers found that adding beetroot to your regular diet can help to lower blood pressure and also reduce the risk of heart-related medical conditions. The participants in the study found that within 6 hours after drinking beetroot juice their blood pressure levels were significantly lowered.

Beets to lower cholesterol

Beetroot and beet greens can help to lower cholesterol naturally and prevent the health complications that high cholesterol cause. The antioxidants, flavonoids, and folic acid in beets help to reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol, which the American Heart Association term as “bad cholesterol”).

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The journal Nutrition Research and Practice found that in clinical trials, red beet leaf extracts helped to reduce dangerous levels of LDL cholesterol in mice. They also found that that the beet greens extract had a beneficial effect on weight loss because it helped to reduce body fat.

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If you are looking for a healthy snack, then you should replace your regular potato chips with beetroot crisps to help lower cholesterol. A study published in the journal Lipids in Health and Disease found that beet chips reduced levels of bad cholesterol and that they had a positive effect on blood glucose.

Beets are anti-inflammatory

Eating beets regularly can help keep you in good health. The beneficial effect of beets on health is due to their anti-inflammatory effects on the body which help prevent various diseases. Doctors say that if inflammation in the body isn’t resolved, the result can be that chronic inflammatory diseases develop.

The journal Nutrients reported that the anti-inflammatory compounds in beets help to reduce inflammation in many areas of the body. The journal mentioned some studies showing that beetroot extract can actually have a similar effect to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) medications.

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Beetroot prevents heart disease

Regularly consuming fresh and cooked beetroot in your diet can help prevent various forms of heart disease and reduce the risk of stroke. Beets contain a high amount of folate (vitamin B9) which has a therapeutic effect on the heart. Also, betaine, which is found in beets, can help promote a healthy heart.

One study into betaine supplements found that they can help to reduce levels of homocysteine and, therefore, reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Elevated levels of homocysteine have been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, heart disease, and stroke.

Other studies have found that the compound betaine found in beets can help to alleviate angina pain, shortness of breath, reduce blood pressure, and generally improve your cardiovascular system.11, 12

Beets improve stamina and athletic performance

Both whole beets and beet juice can help improve athletic performance and give you more energy. The body converts nitrate into energy and is safe to ingest in vegetable form through beets.

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One study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that consuming baked beetroot helped runners to run faster and for longer. The researchers said that beetroot improves running performance in healthy adults.

Other studies have found that drinking juice from beets can help you to work out better and more effectively. Researchers found that taking beetroot juice before exercising helps to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood, reduce blood pressure and improve physiological responses to exercise.

Beets detox your liver and kidneys

If you want to get rid of toxins from your liver, you should consume beetroot regularly. This can help to keep both your liver and kidneys working well and in good health. The beneficial effect of beets on liver and kidney health is thanks to the way betaine detoxifies these organs.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that extracts of beetroot help to prevent fat accumulating in the liver and reduces oxidative stress.Other studies have found that beets have the power to prevent kidney damage and get rid of free radicals that can cause kidney disease.

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Read my article how to detox your liver with a super beet smoothie. You can also find out more information on how to strengthen your liver and how to improve your kidneys health.

Beets can improve cognitive performance

The nitrate content of beets can help to improve brain function and improve memory. Nitrate helps to increase blood flow to the brain which can help to boost your cognitive performance.

For example, researchers have found that increasing beet intake in diet can help to improve memory and mind tasks in older adults. The study found that beets actually stimulated blood flow to the specific areas of the brain where it was needed the most.

When taken along with SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine), beets can also help naturally balance the levels of dopamine in the brain which can help to reduce the symptoms of depression.

The antioxidant properties of beets can also help to prevent Parkinson’s disease due to the increase of dopamine that beets provide.

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Beets help prevent dementia

Another health benefit of eating more beets is that they can help to prevent the onset of dementia. As mentioned in the previous section, beets increase the flow of blood to the brain and improve brain function.

Doctors from WebMD say that a study into the effect of beets on brain health has found that beet juice could help fight the progression of dementia.The study, published by the Wake Forest University found that after four days of drinking beetroot juice, MRI scans showed that there was more blood flow in the area of the brain that is connected with dementia and other cognitive conditions.

Beetroot can help prevent cancer

There are some promising studies showing that beet extracts have an anti-cancer effect and can help to prevent certain cancers from developing. Researchers have said that “ingesting beetroot is a useful means to prevent cancer.”

Side Effects of Eating Beets

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One of the most noticeable side effects of consuming more beets in your diet is that they can turn your stool and urine pink or red (medically called beeturia). There is a lot that the color of your stool can tell about your health, but pinkish stool or urine due to eating beets is not something to be worried about.

Doctors from the NHS in the United Kingdom say that some foods, including beets, prevent calcium being absorbed into your body. This can cause kidney stones to form due to the buildup of calcium in your kidneys.

Eating beets regularly in your diet could also be one of the reasons for your teeth turning yellow.

Tips on Storing and Cooking Beets

Beets can be stored through the winter if they are in a cool dark place that is slightly humid. If stored in warm dry places, beets will tend to sprout and shrivel up.

You can also store beets by freezing them. Before freezing beets, you have to cook them until tender. Then chop or slice the beets and store in the freezer.

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According to The World’s Healthiest Foods, beets can lose their health benefits if cooked for too long. They recommend cutting medium-sized beets into quarters, leave the skin on, and then steaming them for 15 minutes. You can roast beets for up to one hour in the oven.

Alternatively, you can make a delicious traditional Russian soup called borscht. This combines beets, onions, red cabbage and parsley in a broth. This way, you can create a delicious meal that uses all the health benefits of beets.

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Super Anti Inflammatory Beet And Ginger Juice

You can boost the anti-inflammatory power of beets by making a beet and ginger juice. Ginger is also known to reduce inflammation in the body and is great for keeping your digestive system healthy. This beet juice recipe can help to reduce the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

As mentioned previously, beets contain a high proportion of phytonutrients, such as betanin, isobetanin, and vulgaxanthin that act in an anti-inflammatory way. These are all betalains – red and yellow pigments that give beets their distinct color.

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In addition, beets are also a source of betaine, which is made from choline – B-complex vitamin. Choline plays an important role in regulating inflammation and lowers non-inflammatory markers, including some connected to cancer.

If you cook beets for a prolonged amount of time, betalains get destroyed. It is recommended to keep beet steaming times to 15 minutes or less, and roasting times under an hour. Remember that consumption of beets can color your urine red or pink. This is known as beeturia and is usually a normal reaction to eating beets.

Ginger contains strong anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols, which are particularly good for dealing with muscle and arthritis-related pain. Gingerols are chemically related to capsaicin and piperine, which give chili peppers and black pepper their respective spicy kick and healing potential. Ginger is also one of the ingredients in my anti-inflammatory turmeric ginger tea.

Ginger has been studied in relation to its effects on the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Patients reported that regular consumption gradually reduced pain and swelling, and improved the range of movement in the affected joints.

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Ginger is also great for gastro-intestinal problems, helps with nausea and is a natural treatment for colds and respiratory complaints. It can be eaten fresh, cooked or as a powder. During the dehydration process, gingerols transform into shogaols that are twice as spicy as gingerols, so when ginger is dried, it becomes more pungent.

Beet & Ginger Anti-Inflammatory Juice

Ingredients (use organic if possible):

3 kale leaves

1 medium orange, peeled and cut

1 medium apple, remove the seeds and cut into wedges

1 carrot, peeled and cut

1 medium beet, peeled and cut into wedges

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1 knob of fresh ginger (about 1 inch long), peeled

Directions

Wash the produce and peel if needed.

Process the ingredients through a juicer in manageable chunks. Start with the orange and continue with kale, apple, carrot, beet and ginger.

Put your juice into glasses and serve immediately for best nutritional benefit.

How to Ferment Beets

Ingredients:

2 washed, quartered, and sliced beets

3 Tbsp. salt

Water as needed

Instructions:

Add the beets to a quart jar

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Combine salt with 2 cups water. Pour the salty water over the beets, leaving 1-2 inches of headspace (just covering the vegetables). Weigh down as needed.

Cover the jar with a lid and an airlock, if using. If you are not using an airlock be sure to open the jars slightly every day to release pent-up gases

Allow to ferment at a cool room temperature for 3-12 days, depending on preference. Longer is usually better, especially for tough root vegetables.

Transfer to cold storage.

Comments: If you notice froth, scum or mold on top of the beetroots, remove it with a spoon.