Buzz
While everyone has their own pre-game routines, mine involved eating beets, which often made my teammates in the locker room think I was odd. After all, you need to fuel up before a game, and beets might just give you an edge in sports requiring sudden strength.
Beets are rich in nitrates, which the body transforms into nitric oxide (not to be confused with nitrous oxide, the laughing gas). Nitric oxide is a hormone that enhances blood circulation; for instance, Viagra operates by activating nitric oxide pathways. This hormone is beneficial in sports as it improves blood flow to muscles.
The Friedman Sprout highlights several studies supporting this: in many (though not all) instances, individuals who consumed beet juice demonstrated slightly greater “power”—such as explosive strength—compared to those who didn’t. While this won’t aid marathon runners, it could provide a small advantage in weightlifting or sports requiring quick, forceful movements.
However, be cautious of supplements claiming miraculous effects. The benefits are modest, and supplements can be unreliable. Expensive beet powders or beet-based sports drinks may not justify their cost. But if you enjoy the flavor of beets, incorporating the juice or the vegetable itself into your pre-game meal could be worth considering.
Image credit: woodleywonderworks.
