### Health Benefits of Beets for People with Diabetes Beets are a nutritious and delicious addition to your diet, especially if you have diabetes. These root vegetables are packed with essential nutrients like folates, potassium, and powerful antioxidants. Here are some of the key benefits of including beets in your diet: 1. **Blood Sugar Regulation**: Beets contain phytochemicals that help regulate glucose and insulin levels. A study found that drinking beetroot juice can significantly suppress post-meal glucose levels, although more research is needed for those with diabetes. 2. **Antioxidant Properties**: Beets are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body. This reduces oxidative stress, a factor linked to serious diseases like heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants in beets can also lower the risk of diabetes complications. 3. **Reduced Insulin Resistance**: Some studies suggest that the nitrates in beets may reduce insulin resistance, which is beneficial for people with diabetes. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. 4. **Blood Pressure Management**: High blood pressure is a common issue for people with diabetes. Research indicates that consuming beets or beetroot juice can lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel elasticity. 5. **Versatility and Nutritional Value**: Beets are incredibly versatile and can be added to salads, stews, casseroles, and smoothies. The greens are also nutritious and can be eaten like spinach or kale. In summary, beets are a great addition to a diabetes-friendly diet. They help manage blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of complications, and offer numerous other health benefits. Just be aware of beeturia, a harmless condition that can cause your urine or stools to appear pink or red after consuming beets.