Pickled Beets Recipe and Health Benefits
Posted July 4, 2024 by: Admin
Beets are already healthy, but pickled versions offer some additional benefits. Let’s start with fresh beets. They are rich in nutrients like copper, folate, and manganese, which can help boost energy levels, maintain the immune system, and regulate tissue and bone health. (Keep in mind that pickling them slightly reduces the amount of nutrients.) Additionally, beets are full of flavonoid and polyphenol antioxidants that help the body fight off disease. However, pickling them reduces antioxidant levels, so consider this when deciding the best way to consume this superfood.
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Health Benefits of Pickled Beets
Pickled beets made with raw, unpasteurized vinegar or through fermentation contain probiotics. Research shows that probiotics can improve immune function, heart health, and digestion. Probiotics can also fight harmful bacteria in the gut, alleviating symptoms of digestive disorders like bloating, gas, and constipation. Additionally, pickled beets contain nitrates, which the body uses to help blood vessels dilate, potentially preventing high blood pressure for a few hours.
Potential Negative Effects
Certain kinds of store-bought pickled beets may contain high amounts of salt and added sugars. Consuming too much of either of these ingredients has been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health conditions. Additionally, beets contain high amounts of oxalates, and people predisposed to kidney stones are often recommended to avoid them. Also, consuming beets can dye urine pink or red, but this is a harmless side effect.
Pickled Beets Recipe: Ingredients
- 10 pounds fresh small beets, stems removed
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 tablespoon pickling salt
- 1 quart raw, unpasteurized vinegar or white vinegar
- ¼ cup whole cloves, or as needed
Pickled Beets Recipe: Instructions
- Place beets in a large stockpot with enough…
