Home / Ingredient Directory / Beetroot
Yannis Lopez
Reviewed by Yannis Lopez · Nutrition Industry Veteran
Last updated: July 3, 2026
Blood Flow & Performance Nitrate-Rich

Beetroot

Blood flow & exercise performance

High in dietary nitrates
Popular with athletes
Important: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement.
Overview

Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) is a nutrient-rich root vegetable known for its high content of dietary nitrates, antioxidants (betalains), and other beneficial compounds. When consumed, dietary nitrates are converted into nitric oxide in the body, which helps relax and dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles and organs.

Beetroot has gained significant popularity among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for its potential to enhance exercise performance and endurance. It is available in powder, juice, and capsule forms. Research supports its use for improving athletic performance and supporting cardiovascular health.

Potential Benefits

Blood Flow & Circulation

Dietary nitrates convert to nitric oxide, which helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow throughout the body.

Exercise Performance

May improve endurance, time to exhaustion, and overall exercise performance. Popular among athletes and active individuals.

Blood Pressure Support

Research suggests beetroot may help support healthy blood pressure levels through its nitric oxide-boosting effects.

Generally Well Tolerated

Beetroot is very safe for most people. Some may experience beeturia (red urine/stool), which is harmless.

Typical Dosage
Daily Dose
250–500mg nitrates
Or equivalent in powder/juice form (approx. 5–10g powder)
Best Taken
1–2 hours before exercise or daily for general benefits
Can be mixed into water, smoothies, or juice
Pro Tips
  • Take 1–2 hours before workouts for performance benefits
  • Stack with Citrulline or Arginine for enhanced blood flow
  • Choose products standardized for nitrate content
  • Effects on performance are usually noticed within 1–2 weeks
Research Snapshot

Beetroot has been extensively studied for its effects on exercise performance and cardiovascular health. A 2017 meta-analysis found significant improvements in time to exhaustion and power output. Multiple studies support its use for enhancing athletic performance and supporting healthy blood pressure.

How Beetroot Compares

Ingredient Best For Key Difference
Beetroot Blood Flow, Endurance, Performance Rich in nitrates; converts to nitric oxide
Citrulline Blood Flow, Endurance, Pumps Amino acid; converts to arginine & nitric oxide
Arginine Blood Flow, Heart, Immunity Amino acid; direct nitric oxide precursor

Beetroot is often stacked with Citrulline and Creatine for comprehensive performance support.

Popular Stacks with Beetroot
Performance Stack
Beetroot + Citrulline + Creatine
Excellent for endurance and strength
Cardio Stack
Beetroot + CoQ10 + Omega-3
Great for cardiovascular health
Blood Flow Stack
Beetroot + Arginine + Pycnogenol
Popular for circulation support

Full stack recommendations coming soon in our Stacks section.

Frequently Asked Questions
How long until I feel benefits?
Performance benefits are usually noticed within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Some athletes report improvements in endurance within the first few days.
Will beetroot make my urine red?
Yes, some people experience beeturia (red or pink urine/stool) after consuming beetroot. This is completely harmless and occurs in about 10–14% of people due to individual differences in metabolism.
Can I take beetroot every day?
Yes. Beetroot is generally considered safe for daily long-term use. Many athletes and health-conscious individuals take it consistently for ongoing performance and cardiovascular support.
Sources & References

1. McMahon et al. (2017). Dietary nitrate and exercise performance: a meta-analysis. Sports Medicine, 47(4), 735–756.

2. Lundberg et al. (2008). The nitrate–nitrite–nitric oxide pathway in physiology and therapeutics. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 7(2), 156–167.

3. Cermak et al. (2012). Nitrate supplementation's improvement of 10-km time-trial performance in trained cyclists. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 22(1), 64–71.

All references are peer-reviewed studies or position stands from reputable organizations.

Related Ingredients

Citrulline Malate
Nitric oxide support
L-Arginine
Blood flow support
CoQ10
Cardiovascular support
Hawthorn
Heart health support
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