Beetroot / dietary nitrates

Also known as beet root, beetroot powder, dietary nitrate, beet juice.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Beetroot / dietary nitrates?

In plain words

Beetroot is a vegetable that contains nitrate, a substance also found in leafy greens. Bacteria in the mouth and processes in the body turn nitrate into nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax. Researchers study beetroot juice and nitrate-rich products for their effects on blood pressure and exercise performance. Some studies show modest benefits, but results vary across people and products.

Technical definition

Beetroot (Beta vulgaris) is a botanical source of inorganic nitrate (NO₃⁻), which oral bacteria convert to nitrite before further conversion to nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide activates soluble guanylate cyclase, increasing cyclic GMP signaling and promoting vascular smooth-muscle relaxation; this pathway underlies research on blood pressure and exercise performance. Beetroot products are marketed as foods and dietary supplements, not FDA-approved treatments for cardiovascular disease.

Educational information only. This page does not provide medical advice or determine whether a supplement is appropriate for you. Review supplements with a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you take medication, are pregnant, have surgery scheduled, or have a chronic medical condition.

Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.