The Beetroot Study

The effects of supplementation with nitrate-rich beetroot juice on performance and cardiovascular health of younger and older adults.

Researchers Introduction

With increasing rates of disease and age-related dysfunction, there is a growing interest in the use of
food-based supplements to help improve or maintain one’s health and body functions. This has led to
the interest in beetroot juice (which contains nitrate) as a health food, as it has the potential to improve cognition, mood and cardiovascular function.

For my Honours project I found that beetroot juice reduced blood pressure and improved cognitive performance in younger and older adults; however, further research is required to support this. The aims of this study are to examine the effects of a single dose and prolonged intake of nitrate supplementation, of beetroot juice, on cognition, mood and cardiovascular responses in younger (18-30 years) and older adults (50-70 years).

Inclusion Criteria

You are invited to participate if you are:

•    between the ages 18-30y or 50-75y
•    able to cycle for 20 min
•    not an advanced/elite athletes (someone who trains more than four times per week constantly for their sport and competes at a high level)
•    not on blood pressure medication

Full information sheet

Study contacts

Register your interest

Page authorised by Head of School, School of Food and Nutrition
Last updated on Monday 18 June 2018