Up until about 12 months ago, I would not eat beetroot. I didn't like the texture and so avoided it for 57 years, lol. But after I found out how good they are for you, I have been trying to figure out ways that I could get them in my body without wanting to gag. I have actually found that Beetroots aren't too bad at all, as long as I don't eat them out of a can.

So what is so good about beetroot that made me change my mind? I read somewhere that it can help with macular degeneration. I was diagnosed with this when I was about 40, so whatever I can do to delay the blindness that is supposed to be inevitable then I will have a go.

The health benefits of beets apparently, include the treatment of anemia, indigestion, constipation, piles, kidney disorders, dandruff, gall bladder disorders, cancer, and heart disease. It also improves blood circulation, aid in skin care, prevent cataracts and help with respiratory problems. It can help lower blood pressure, prevent osteoporosis, Keeps diabetes under check, helps relieve fatigue, Improves sexual health and stamina and boosts brain power. It can also help to reduce birth defects, so is great for pregnant women.

Beetroots are a good source of folate and manganese. It also contains thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin B-6, pantothenic acid, choline, betaine, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper and selenium, manganese,vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, as well as nitrates.

The plant pigment that gives beetroot its rich, purple-crimson colour is betacyanin; a powerful agent, thought to suppress the development of some types of cancer.

Beetroots are easy to grow in the vege patch. We haven't had to do anything beyond the norm to get them to grow well.

The first way I had beetroot was in a juice. I added apple and carrot and it was sweet and delicious. These days, I add it to all my juices so it is easy for me to include it in my juicing ritual. I always use fresh beetroot and just wash it and chop it up. I add the peel into the juice as well.

If you want to cook the beetroot, they are easy to roast, boil and steam. You can also grate them and add them to stir frys or salads. They turn out to be a really versatile vegetable that I have just about got a grip on.

Beetroot juice is a great natural colorant. Add some when making jams, jellies, ice cream, cakes and tomato paste.

I have heard, but not been game to try, beetroot juice in skincare and hair care routines. I have found a couple of recipes that you can try and please let me know how they go.

This first one Mix a little bit of beetroot juice with honey and milk and apply it as a nice coating to your face as a mask. Leave it on for as long as you can and then rinse off. It is supposed to be a terrific moisturiser.

The second one supposedly helps prevent dry scalp, hair loss and helps get voluminous and shiny hair. Mix some ginger juice with beetroot juice to avoid loss of hair. Add some vinegar with the beetroot juice, and your dry scalp problem taken care of! I wonder if your hair will turn pink? I don't think I would give this a go, but if you do try it, let me know how it worked out for you, lolololol

If your hands become stained during preparation and cooking beetroot, rub some lemon juice over them to help remove the colour.

Here is a video I found on youtube that talks about beetroot.