Why Red Velvet Isn’t Just a Treat: The Science of Beetroot and Nitric Oxide

Why Red Velvet Isn’t Just a Treat: The Science of Beetroot and Nitric Oxide

Beetroot isn’t just a show‑stopping garnish—it’s a science‑backed superfood that delivers more than just vibrant hue and sweet earthiness. When you reach for your Beetroot Hot Chocolate, you're not just savouring a cosy, caffeine‑free indulgence—you’re sipping on a delicious way to support circulation, heart health, and even athletic performance.

How Beetroot Bolsters Nitric Oxide and Blood Flow

  • Nitrate-rich beetroot powder delivers inorganic nitrate (NO₃⁻), which your body converts—via oral bacteria—to nitrite and then nitric oxide (NO), a potent vasodilator. This process helps relax and widen your blood vessels, boosting blood flow.

  • A single 6–7 mmol dose of beetroot juice has been shown to lower central (aortic) systolic blood pressure by around 5 mmHg within 30 minutes—a meaningful short‑term improvement.

  • Meta‑analyses show reductions in brachial (arm) systolic blood pressure averaging ~4.5 mmHg with longer‑term beetroot juice supplementation.

  • Beetroot juice has been seen to improve vascular function and reduce resting arterial stiffness, potentially easing the heart’s workload.

Beetroot and Athletic Performance: What the Evidence Says

  • Aerobic endurance: Recent research (2025) reports a small but statistically significant increase in maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) and muscular endurance, along with improved lactate tolerance, following beetroot juice supplementation.

  • Intermittent high‑intensity efforts—such as sports with short rest periods—benefit too: beetroot juice improves recovery of phosphocreatine and increases muscle power output.Exercise economy: Compared to nitrate salts, beetroot juice may more efficiently lower oxygen consumption and improve performance at moderate to high intensity—possibly through mitochondrial efficiency effects.

  • Sympathetic nerve activity: Acute beetroot supplementation can dampen sympathetic nerve outflow (stress‑related signals) at rest and during exercise, contributing to cardiovascular ease.

A Note of Caution: Not Always Bullet-Proof

  • One study found no effect on muscle blood flow or vasodilation during exercise, though improvements were seen in arterial stiffness at rest.

  • A pilot trial reported no significant impact on blood pressure or microvascular function in younger or older participants after a single dose—highlighting how effects may be transient or require specific timing/dose.

Beetroot Hot Chocolate: A Delicious, Natural Boost for Your Body

Imagine the familiar warmth of hot chocolate, but with a velvety, earthy twist—your Beetroot Hot Chocolate is made with beetroot powder, cocoa, milk (or plant‑based alternative), a touch of sweetener (like maple syrup), and warming spices like cinnamon or vanilla.

  • Rich in nitrates from beetroot powder, offering that nitric‑oxide effect—supporting circulation, heart health, and oxygen delivery to muscles—all in a comforting, caffeine‑free drink.

  • Natural antioxidants and anti‑inflammatory compounds—such as betalains, phenolic acids, and flavonoids—support vascular health and reduce muscle soreness.

  • Convenient and versatile: One teaspoon of beetroot powder approximates the nutrients of an entire beet, making it easy to add to your favourite beverages.

  • Gentle, caffeine-free warming drink—perfect at any time of day, morning or evening—without the jittery lift of caffeine.

Enjoy with the glow of knowing each rich sip carries a subtle, science-backed boost—supporting your circulation, muscles, and heart health.

Final Thoughts

Beyond its vibrant colour and tasty charm, beetroot brings real science to the table. Thanks to its nitrate content and antioxidant profile, it supports naturally enhanced blood flow, modest improvements in endurance, and cardiovascular ease.

Beetroot Hot Chocolate isn’t just a comforting treat—it’s a delicious micro-dose of functional nutrition, cleverly delivered in every velvety sip.

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