How a traditional Ukrainian vegetables became a global superstar • Eastfruit

Last week Eastfruit observed an unprecedented phenomenon: Red beds became the leading product for the first time according to the number of lists on its trading platform. This unusual market dominance through a traditionally low -profile shared vegetables in Ukraine prompted our team Eastfruit to examine the reasons for the sudden popularity.

Our research showed that beetroot is increasingly recognized as a nutritional work and offers remarkable health benefits that take several common concerns into account with regard to well -being. Beetle beds rich in nitrates, antioxidants and essential nutrients and was scientifically associated with improvements in blood pressure regulation, improved physical endurance, reduced inflammation, improved digestive health and even the advantage for sexual well -being.

This shift in market dynamics seems to reflect the growing awareness of consumers for the extraordinary diet of beetroot and position this once overlooked vegetables as an up -and -coming star on the market for health -conscious foods.

Beetroot in the Ukrainian tradition

Beetroot, or “Buryak” In Ukrainian, there are deeply embedded in the country's culinary legacy. A cornerstone of traditional dishes like BorschingWhat the UNESCO recognizes in the context of the intangible cultural heritage of Ukraine were also beets in meals such as a staple food such as Shpundra (Pork with beet sauce), salads and horseradish spices. Thanks to the fertile floors of Ukraine, beets have long been affordable and widespread, which makes it a dietary pillar, especially in the communities on rural and lower incomes.

Historical records and archaeological finds indicate that the cultivation of rates in Ukraine decreases at least the 16th century. Until the 18th century, they were among the most important vegetables in the left Ukraine in addition to onions.

Nutrition and scientifically proven health benefits

Beets are today as Functional superfoodWith strong scientific support:

• Nitrates for blood pressure: Beets contain a high degree of Natural nitrateThe converting into nitrogen oxide in the body – improves blood flow and lowered blood pressure. A study from 2019 showed that the consumption of beet juice significantly reduced the systolic pressure of aorties (PubMed).
• Sporting endurance: Sports scientists note that nutritional nitrate in beets Increase endurance By improving mitochondrial efficiency. A 2018 Sports medicine The review confirmed the reduced oxygen consumption during activity with high intensity (PubMed).
• Anti -inflammatory effects: Beet contained Betalainsknown for the reduction of CRP and TNF-α. A 2-week beet juice study showed a reduced inflammation (PubMed).
• Brain function: Nitrate improve blood flow to the brain's frontal cortex and support the perception. A small study showed an improved response time in people with type -2 -diabetes (PubMed).
• Digestion and health health: A cup delivers 3.4 g fiber, support of digestion and linked risks of colon cancer and type -2 diabetes.
• Anti-cancer properties: Connections such as betaine and ferulic acid can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, although more human studies are required (PubMed).
• Weight -friendly: Calories low (44 kcal/100 g), but rich in fiber and water and beets support weight loss and feeling of satiety.
• Sexual health: Although clinical studies have not yet been confirmed, the nitrate-rich profile promotes the vasodilation taverns ranks a trendy natural alternative for support erectile health.

But what about nitrates that are “bad”?

Contrary to widespread concerns, especially in Eastern Europe, Nitrates in vegetables such as beetroot are not only harmless, but also very advantageous for health. Exactly the high content of vegetable nitrates makes beetroot such a valuable product. In a blog of Andriy Yarmak, a fao economist, it is explained in detail why the concept of nitrate in vegetables and fruit that is harmful, is a long-thin scientific myth and the origin of this misunderstanding (full article on Russia). In short, vegetable nitrates in fresh vegetables should not be confused with industrially added nitrate preservatives that take considerable health risks.