If you’re trying to alkalize the body and optimize your health – beet greens would be a wise choice. With an earthy bitter taste – these greens have a reputation for helping to regenerate and reactivate red blood cells by supplying oxygen throughout the body. But, most importantly, beet greens can help to detoxify the body, inhibit cancer cell growth and eliminate constipation.
The ancient Romans were among the first civilizations to consume beets. Surprisingly enough, they ate the beet greens for their medicinal value while the roots were discarded. Only many years later did they discovered that the roots were edible and quickly became quite popular – especially (now) in the natural health community.
Beet Greens Contain Powerful Compounds That Regenerate Liver Function
A 2012 study investigated the liver-protecting action of beet greens in rat liver cultures and rats with hepatoxicity. Test tube studies used an n-butanol fraction of the beet leaves, and the rats were fed at a dose of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. Test tube and lab studies both showed significant liver-protecting effects. This study concluded that beet greens have a potent hepatoprotective effect against ethanol-induced hepatic toxicity and may have a great potential role in the management of alcoholic liver disease.
