Prostate Cancer - the antioxidant power of Beets

Prostate Cancer - the antioxidant power of Beets Dr. Christopher Allard, MD, FRCSC, Urologist,

Dietary fibre and antioxidant intake are two of the biggest considerations when it comes to reducing the risk of preventable cancers, such as prostate and colorectal cancer. Beets and beet greens are among the most abundant sources of both these important nutrients, which makes them a great addition to anyone’s diet. Beets contain the antioxidants betalain and flavonoids, which laboratory studies have suggested could be both heart and cancer protective. Adding a colourful vegetable like beets to your diet is a great addition for anyone dealing with prostate cancer.

Sarah Ware, Registered Dietitian:

Known outside North America as beetroot, beets are traditionally considered a starchy vegetable although the leafy greens to which they are attached give them dual utility from the culinary and nutritional perspective. The beet itself, the bulbous purple potato looking aspect of the plant, may be traditionally used in a similar fashion to foods like sweet potato which also have a lower glycemic index and higher antioxidant capacity (owing to the compounds that given them their vibrant color) than more traditional potato varieties. The beet greens, on the other hand, act more as a “traditional vegetable” in the sense that they are largely compromised of dietary fibre and antioxidants in the same way we might expect a leafy green vegetable like kale to be. In fact, beets and beet greens served in conjunction with a protein source would indeed make a perfectly balanced and nutrient-dense meal that any health professional would be proud of. For more information on beets and other healthy vegetables, or how you can incorporate beets into your diet more, please reach out to your local registered dietician.

Presenter: Dr. Christopher Allard ​, Urologist, ​Burlington, ON

Local Practitioners: Urologist