Beet Root, Nitrates and Blood Pressure: What to Know
Educational guide · Last updated: October 4, 2026 · Not medical advice.
Key takeaways:
- Beet root is a natural source of dietary nitrate.
- Studies show small blood pressure effects in some adults.
- It can add to the effect of blood pressure medicines.
How it works
Dietary nitrate from beets and leafy greens is converted in the body into nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax.
What studies show
Trials of beet juice report small drops in blood pressure and modest exercise benefits in some groups. Effects vary and are usually short term.
Cautions
- It may add to the effect of blood pressure medicines.
- People prone to kidney stones should ask a doctor, because beets are high in oxalate.
- Do not combine nitric-oxide supplements with nitrate medicines (like nitroglycerin) or ED medicines without medical advice.
In supplements
Beet root appears in products such as Nitric Boost and Spartamax. Eating whole beets and leafy greens is an easy first step.
Sources to read next
- American Heart Association: nitrate and heart health resources
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Exercise and performance supplements
This article is for education only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Healthnilo earns commissions from some links on this site; see our Affiliate Disclosure and Editorial Policy.
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