Beet juice has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and improving athletic performance. While fresh beets are ideal for juicing, many people wonder if beet juice from canned beets is a good alternative. In this article, we will delve into the world of canned beets and explore their suitability for drinking.
What’s in Canned Beets?
Canned beets are made from cooked beets that have been packed in a liquid, usually water or a saltwater brine, and then sealed in airtight containers. The canning process involves heating the beets to a high temperature to kill off bacteria and extend shelf life. While canning helps preserve the beets, it also affects their nutritional content and flavor.
Nutritional Content of Canned Beets
Compared to fresh beets, canned beets are lower in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and potassium. However, they are still a good source of fiber, folate, and manganese. The canning liquid may also contain added salt, which can be a concern for those with high blood pressure or other heart health issues.
| Nutrient | Fresh Beets (1 cup) | Canned Beets (1 cup) |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 6.7 mg | 2.5 mg |
| Potassium | 518 mg | 278 mg |
| Fiber | 3.7 g | 3.2 g |
| Folate | 136 mcg | 128 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg | 0.2 mg |
Is Beet Juice from Canned Beets Good to Drink?
While canned beets are not as nutritious as fresh beets, they can still be used to make a healthy and tasty beet juice. However, there are some factors to consider before consuming beet juice from canned beets.
Pros of Drinking Beet Juice from Canned Beets
- Convenience: Canned beets are widely available and can be easily stored in a pantry.
- Affordability: Canned beets are generally cheaper than fresh beets, making them a more accessible option for those on a budget.
- Long Shelf Life: Canned beets can be stored for up to 2 years, making them a great option for emergency food supplies or camping trips.
Cons of Drinking Beet Juice from Canned Beets
- Lower Nutritional Content: As mentioned earlier, canned beets are lower in vitamins and minerals compared to fresh beets.
- Added Salt: The canning liquid may contain added salt, which can be a concern for those with high blood pressure or other heart health issues.
- Preservatives and Additives: Some canned beets may contain preservatives or additives, such as citric acid or calcium chloride, which can affect the flavor and nutritional content of the juice.
How to Make Beet Juice from Canned Beets
If you still want to try making beet juice from canned beets, here’s a simple recipe:
- 1 cup canned beets
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Combine the canned beets, water, lemon juice, and honey (if using) in a blender or juicer. Blend until smooth and strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve. Discard the solids and drink the juice immediately.
Alternatives to Canned Beets
If you’re concerned about the nutritional content or additives in canned beets, consider the following alternatives:
- Fresh Beets: Fresh beets are the best option for making beet juice. They’re higher in vitamins and minerals and have a sweeter, earthier flavor.
- Frozen Beets: Frozen beets are a good alternative to canned beets. They’re flash-frozen soon after harvesting, which helps preserve their nutritional content.
- Beet Powder: Beet powder is a convenient and shelf-stable option for making beet juice. Look for a brand that’s low in additives and made from organic beets.
Conclusion
While beet juice from canned beets is not the most ideal option, it can still be a healthy and tasty choice. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential drawbacks, including lower nutritional content and added salt. If you do choose to drink beet juice from canned beets, make sure to check the ingredient label and look for brands that are low in additives and made from organic beets.
Is beet juice from canned beets as nutritious as fresh beet juice?
Beet juice from canned beets can be a nutritious alternative to fresh beet juice, but it may not be as potent. Canned beets are typically cooked and processed, which can break down some of the delicate nutrients found in fresh beets. However, many canned beet products are made from beets that are picked at the peak of freshness and then cooked and canned soon after, which helps preserve some of the nutrients.
That being said, fresh beet juice is generally considered the more nutritious option. Fresh beets contain a higher amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than canned beets. Fresh beet juice also contains a higher amount of nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body and can help to lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance. If you want to get the most nutritional benefits from beet juice, it’s best to make it from fresh beets.
What are the benefits of drinking beet juice from canned beets?
Drinking beet juice from canned beets can have several health benefits. One of the main benefits is the high amount of nitrates found in beets, which can help to lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance. Beets are also rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can help to protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Additionally, beet juice has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Another benefit of drinking beet juice from canned beets is its potential to improve cognitive function. The nitrates found in beets can help to improve blood flow to the brain, which can improve memory and concentration. Beet juice has also been shown to have a positive effect on digestive health, as it contains prebiotic fiber that can help to feed the good bacteria in the gut.
Can I drink beet juice from canned beets every day?
While beet juice from canned beets can be a healthy addition to your diet, it’s not recommended to drink it every day. Beets are high in oxalates, which can be problematic for people with kidney stones or other kidney problems. Drinking beet juice every day can also cause an overload of oxalates in the body, which can lead to kidney damage.
It’s recommended to drink beet juice from canned beets in moderation, about 1-2 times per week. This will allow you to reap the benefits of the nitrates and antioxidants found in beets without overloading your body with oxalates. It’s also important to talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
How do I choose the best canned beets for making beet juice?
When choosing canned beets for making beet juice, look for products that are labeled as “no salt added” or “low sodium.” This will help to reduce the amount of sodium in your beet juice. You should also choose canned beets that are made from beets that are grown without pesticides or other chemicals.
Another thing to consider is the type of liquid that the beets are packed in. Some canned beets are packed in water, while others are packed in saltwater or other liquids. Look for canned beets that are packed in water, as this will help to reduce the amount of sodium in your beet juice.
Can I mix beet juice from canned beets with other juices?
Yes, you can mix beet juice from canned beets with other juices to create a delicious and healthy drink. Some popular juices to mix with beet juice include apple juice, carrot juice, and ginger juice. Mixing beet juice with other juices can help to mask the strong flavor of the beets and make it more palatable.
When mixing beet juice with other juices, start with a small amount of beet juice and add it to a larger amount of the other juice. This will help to prevent the beet juice from overpowering the other flavors. You can also add other ingredients to your juice, such as lemon juice or honey, to enhance the flavor.
Is beet juice from canned beets safe for everyone to drink?
Beet juice from canned beets is generally safe for most people to drink, but there are some exceptions. People with kidney stones or other kidney problems should avoid drinking beet juice, as it can exacerbate these conditions. People with high blood pressure should also talk to their doctor before drinking beet juice, as it can lower blood pressure and interact with certain medications.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also talk to their doctor before drinking beet juice, as it can affect the fetus or baby. Additionally, people with certain allergies or sensitivities should avoid drinking beet juice, as it can cause an allergic reaction.
How do I store beet juice from canned beets?
Beet juice from canned beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to store it in a glass container with a tight-fitting lid, as this will help to prevent contamination and spoilage. You can also freeze beet juice for up to 6 months, which will help to preserve the nutrients and flavor.
When storing beet juice, make sure to keep it away from light and heat, as this can cause the juice to degrade and lose its nutritional value. You should also give the juice a good stir before drinking it, as the sediment can settle at the bottom of the container.