Beets are probably one of the most important ingredients in a raw food diet. They are a unique source of phytonutrients called betalains. Betanin and vulgaxanthin are the two best-studied betalains from beets, and both have been shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as a great support of the body's own detoxification processes.
The detox support provided by betalains includes support of some especially important Phase 2 detox steps involving glutathione. Although these betalain pigments are also present in other foods (like the stems of chard or rhubarb), the concentration of betalains in the peel and flesh of beets is the highest.
Beets are also an excellent source of folate and a very good source of manganese, potassium and vitamins A, C, B2 and B6. Beets are a good source of cognitive function supporting dietary nitrates; digestion supporting dietary fiber; free radical scavenging copper; bone health supporting magnesium; and energy producing iron and phosphorus.
Beets are well researched for their cardiovascular and heart health benefits. Thanks to the specific compound combination found in beets, they can help reduce blood pressure, improve blood flow, improve the overall health of arteries, reduce LDL (low-density lipoprotein or the bad cholesterol) and homocysteine.
This simple salad also includes ginger, hot chili pepper and cilantro. Together with beets they offer an optimal liver support and help detoxify your body.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 beets
- 2 slices of ginger
- 1 small bunch of fresh herbs: cilantro, dill, chives, flat leaf parsley and spring onions
- 3 Tbsp virgin flax seed oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp raw honey
- 1/3 tsp hot chili flakes
- pinch of pink Himalayan salt
Method:
- Wash and peel the beets. Cut them lengthwise into quarters and slice into thin slices. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Mince the ginger and mix with beets.
- Mince fresh herbs and gently mix them with beets and ginger. Set aside.
- Make dressing whisking flax oil, balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl. Add chili flakes and salt and mix vigorously.
- Pour dressing over beet salad and mix thoroughly. Serve in individual bowls with raw flax crackers and enjoy in good company!
Beets! You either love them or hate them. Those who love beets enjoy their sweetness and the earthy taste. To those who hate them, beets taste like garden dirt. The "earthiness" is caused by a compound geosmin that can be detected by the human nose in minuscule concentrations. Geosmin, or the "earth smell," is the same odor that is present in the air after the rain. People sensitive to geosmin naturally abhor beets, but those who do not mind the earthy taste should add them to their diet as often as they can.
Finished!