Beetroot powder

Beetroot powder (Beta vulgaris) is a concentration of fresh beetroots obtained by low-temperature drying and grinding. It is particularly rich in natural nitrates (NO3-), which convert in the body into nitric oxide (NO) via the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway. Nitric oxide is a powerful vasodilator that improves blood circulation, reduces muscle oxygen consumption during exercise and delays muscle fatigue. It is one of the best documented natural sports performance boosters.

Yes, with high-quality studies. A meta-analysis published in European Journal of Applied Physiology (2017) grouping 23 clinical trials showed that beetroot nitrate supplementation improved time to exhaustion endurance by 3 to 25% depending on the study. Research from the University of Exeter (Coles and Jones, 2002) established that 2.5 ml/kg of beetroot juice (approximately 400 mg of nitrates) consumed 2 hours before exercise reduced the oxygen cost of a submaximal effort by 19%.

Studies generally use 400 to 500 mg of nitrates (NO3-) approximately 2 to 3 hours before exercise for an optimal effect. The nitrate concentration of beetroot powder varies depending on the manufacturing process — check the nitrate content or beetroot juice equivalent on the Kiki Health packaging. For daily non-sports use (cardiovascular health), a lower dose is appropriate.

Meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials show that beetroot nitrate supplementation reduces systolic blood pressure by 3 to 6 mmHg and diastolic by 2 to 3 mmHg on average — comparable to the effect of a moderate lifestyle modification. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2014) confirmed this effect. Particularly interesting for people with mild to moderate hypertension, as a complement (never a replacement) to medical treatment.

Mix the recommended dose (indicated on the packaging) in a glass of water or juice for an express beetroot shot, or incorporate it into a red fruit smoothie (strawberry, raspberry) for a balanced taste. For sports performance, take 2 to 3 hours before training. For daily health, in the morning or at lunch. The powder can also be used in cooking in sauces or salads for a natural intense pink colour.

Kiki Health preferentially sources certified organic ingredients. Check for the presence of an organic certification (Soil Association UK) on the Kiki Health Beetroot Powder packaging. Organic beetroot guarantees the absence of pesticide residues and a natural nitrate content (vs nitrates added in intensive conventional crops) derived solely from the soil.

Beetroot is generally very well tolerated as a food. Betalain (the red pigment of beetroot) can colour urine and stools red — a benign effect called beeturia, not dangerous but potentially surprising. Contraindications: chronic kidney disease (beetroot is rich in oxalates and potassium, to be monitored); oxalic kidney stones (precaution); people on antihypertensive medications (possible additive effect). Beetroot nitrates can interfere with erectile dysfunction medications (sildenafil, tadalafil) — consult your doctor.

SuperKure is the official distributor of Kiki Health in France. Order at superkure.fr with 24–48h delivery from our French warehouse. No customs fees, free delivery from €60. For a complete natural sports protocol, combine the Beetroot Powder with Omega-3, Cordyceps and Spirulina from Kiki Health available at superkure.fr.