It's time to get back to your roots, the humble root vegetable is no longer humble! In the past, root veggies were just a simple staple of hearty winter stews, rustic side dishes, and peasant foods around the world. They have been underestimated and now they are ready to own their power!
All too often, root vegetables are regarded as simple, starchy "fillers", ingredients that simply make meals more filling, without any other benefits. If you feel this way... you'll change your mind once you discover the power of the beet!
The truth is, root vegetables are not just delicious, but they have a ton of health benefits and have a rightful place as a daily staple of the vegan diet. So of course, it’s part of the Vegan Rob’s delicious yet nutritious line of snacks flavors.
Health Benefits of Root Vegetables
According to
Dr. Susan E Brown, root vegetables are packed full of health benefits,
including:
●
Packed with nutrition. Root vegetables store their nutrients in (where else?) the
roots. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and a great source of
natural energy.
●
Full of fiber. Root vegetables are high in fiber, which promotes good digestive
health and
improves the stability of our blood sugar.
●
Excellent source of minerals. Because they are in such close contact with the
soil, root vegetables are especially high in minerals. They are a great source of
potassium, magnesium, copper, zinc, and phosphorus.
●
High in healthy carbs. Root vegetables are rich in gut-healthy "resistant"
starches. These starches aren't easily digested, so they remain intact in the body,
feeding your digestive bacteria and slowly releasing
beneficial short-chain fatty
acids.
In fact, a Europe-wide dietary study found that people who eat high quantities of root
vegetables have
reduced risk for diabetes, so don't be afraid to get back to your roots.
The Boost of Beets
Want to know why we put beets center stage in our Beef Puffs? It seems wild, but it’s
cause we know the power these little red roots have!
Among root vegetables, beets have held a place of honor since ancient times. The Greek
Goddess Aphrodite famously used beets to preserve her timeless beauty, and the Oracle
of Delphi praised the mystical powers of beets. Of course, beets are high in the nutrients
found in other root vegetables, like fiber, Vitamin C, folate, and magnesium. But their
distinctive red color is caused by special compounds that are unique to beets, and
scientists are excited about the health benefits that are unique to beets. Some of the
exceptional nutrients in beets include:
●
Betaine. Betaine is what causes the rich color of beets, and it is a powerful
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. It helps promote healthy cells and
protects them from oxidative damage.
●
Nitrates. The nitrates in beets expand blood vessels, improving blood pressure
and potentially even
boosting performance during exercise.
●
High in potassium and boron. Beets are especially high in essential nutrients like
heart-healthy potassium and brain-boosting boron.
Although beets are famously sweet, and often used to produce sugar, natural beets are
also extremely high in fiber making keeping themselves low on the glycemic index despite
their sweet flavor.
Beet juice and beetroot powder are more concentrated than whole beets, so many of the
health benefits of beets are even more potent in these foods. Beets can be enjoyed
roasted, in salads, and in soups. Beet juice is delicious alone or in smoothies and even
cocktails. Use beet puree to make a vegan and naturally colored vivid red velvet cake, or
enjoy beets as a healthy and delicious snack with
Vegan Rob's Beet Puffs.
Once you start exploring the many ways to enjoy beets, you unlock a whole new culinary
experience in flavors, textures, and colors, while enjoying the healthy benefits to your
mind and body. It's time to go a little deeper, dig down, and uncover your roots. And for
more ways to thrive, subscribe to
Vegan Rob's to get inside info on new products,
coupons, free tastings, and more!
