Beetroot, which is often overlooked as a mere culinary garnish, has recently made waves in the field of wellness and health. This root vegetable, with its brilliant colour and earthy flavour, has long been praised for its nutritional value. Plus, it contains essential nutrients and provides several health benefits, including your sex life. From ancient remedies to recent research, beetroot has been linked to increased desire and improved sexual function in men and women. If you have a low sex drive and need a little boost, including beetroot in your diet may help. Here's how you can use beetroot for sex.

What is beetroot?

Beetroot, commonly known as beet, is the taproot portion of the beet plant, scientifically known as Beta vulgaris. It is typically deep red or purple, though it can also be found in yellow, white, or striped varieties. Beetroot is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, iron, and dietary fibre, as found in a study published in BioMedCentral.

Beetroot is widely consumed in various forms, including salads, juice, roasted, or as a key ingredient in dishes like soups (for example, borscht). Its natural sweetness and vibrant colour make it a popular choice in both culinary and health-conscious diets. Additionally, beetroot has been recognised for its potential health benefits, such as improving sex life and blood circulation, supporting heart health, and enhancing athletic performance due to its high nitrate content, as found in a study published in Food Science and Nutrition.

Beetroot juice can help boost your sex drive. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

What is sex drive?

Sex drive, also known as libido, refers to a person's overall desire or interest in sexual activity. It is a natural and complex aspect of human behaviour influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, according to a study published in the Encyclopedia of Endocrine Disease.

6 factors that affect your sex drive

Sex drive in women can be affected by many physical and psychological factors. Dr Chetna Jain says that several reasons may cause changes in your sex drive, including:

1. Hormones

Hormones like testosterone in both men and women play a significant role in regulating sex drive. Estrogen and progesterone also influence libido in women.

2. Emotional and psychological factors

Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues can impact sexual desire. Positive emotional well-being often enhances libido.

3. Physical health

Overall health, fitness and the presence of medical conditions (like diabetes or cardiovascular disease) can affect sexual desire and performance.

4. Lifestyle choices

Factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, and substance use (like alcohol or drugs) can influence libido.

5. Age

Sex drive can change over time, with hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or ageing affecting desire.

6. Social and cultural influences

Societal norms, cultural beliefs, and personal values can shape an individual's sexual desires and behaviours.

Sex drive varies from person to person and can fluctuate due to various factors, making it a unique and personal aspect of one's life.

How beetroot boosts sex drive?

Beetroot can boost sex drive due to several factors, as explained by the expert.

1. Nitric oxide production

Beetroot is rich in nitrates, as found in a study published in Frontiers in Nutrition, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow. Enhanced blood circulation is crucial for sexual function and can contribute to increased libido.

2. Energy and stamina

Beetroot contains betaine and boron, as per a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Medicine and Diet Care, which can enhance stamina and energy levels. Better stamina and energy are associated with improved sexual performance.

3. Hormonal support

Beetroot contains boron, a mineral that plays a role in the production of sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, which are key in regulating libido.

Beetroot for sex drive: 5 recipes you should try

Here are some easy and effective ways to incorporate beetroot into your diet to improve your sex drive or libido. Try out these expert-recommended ways to improve your sex life.

1. Beetroot juice

Drinking a glass of fresh beetroot juice daily can enhance blood circulation and provide a quick boost in energy levels.

Ingredients:

• 2 big beetroots
• 1 apple (for sweetness)
• 1 carrot (for additional nutrition)
• 1 cup water

Method:

• Wash the beets, apples, and carrots thoroughly. Peel the beets and apple, if preferred. Cut the vegetables into tiny pieces to fit in your juicer.
• Place the prepped vegetables in the juicer and turn it on. Collect the juice in a glass or jar.
• If the juice is too thick, add water to get your preferred consistency.
• Enjoy your freshly produced beetroot juice straight away for the finest flavour and nutritional value.

2. Beetroot salad

Incorporating raw or roasted beetroot in salads with leafy greens, nuts, and seeds can be a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy its benefits.

Ingredients:

• 2 cooked beets, sliced or diced
• 1 cup of mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of toasted walnuts or almonds
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

• Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked beets, mixed greens, feta cheese, and toasted almonds.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
• Enjoy the bright colours and flavours of your beetroot salad.

3. Beetroot smoothie

Blend beetroot with fruits like apples, berries, and a touch of ginger for a refreshing smoothie that supports sexual health.

Ingredients:

• 1 cooked beet, peeled and chopped
• 1 apple, cored and chopped
• 1 cup of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup of water (or more, depending on desired consistency)

Optional: A handful of spinach or kale for added nutrients

Method:

• Combine the beetroot, apple, berries, ginger, and water in a blender. If wished, add some spinach or kale.
• Blend until the ingredients are well incorporated and the smoothie has a smooth consistency.
• If the smoothie is too thick, add some additional water and combine again.
• Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy it immediately.

Beetroot smoothie is a good option to try this root for sex! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

4. Roasted beetroot

Roasting beetroot with olive oil and spices makes a tasty side dish that can be paired with dinner and helps to improve your sex life.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 beets, peeled and quartered
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of feta cheese

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
• Put the peeled and quartered beets on a baking pan. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
• Roast the beets in a preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until fork-tender.
• Serve the roasted beets immediately. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or top with feta cheese.

5. Beetroot soup

Prepare a warm beetroot soup with herbs like rosemary or thyme, which can be a comforting and nutritious meal and most importantly boosting your libido.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 beets, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yoghurt

Method:

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and garlic and sauté until softened.
• Stir in the diced beets until well combined.
• Pour in the veggie broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer for 20-
• 25 minutes, or until the beets are soft.
• Using a mixer or immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yoghurt, if desired.

Side effects of beetroot for sex

While beetroots are generally safe to consume, however, here are some side effects of beetroots for sex, as pointed out by the expert.

• Beeturia: Some people may experience beeturia, a condition where urine turns pink or red after consuming beetroot. While harmless, it might cause concern if mistaken for blood in the urine.
• Kidney stones: Beetroot is high in oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals. Those with a history of kidney stones should consume beetroot in moderation.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Some people might experience digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially if consumed in large quantities.
• Allergic reactions: Though rare, some individuals may be allergic to beetroot, experiencing symptoms like rashes, itching, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases.

Incorporating beetroot into the diet for sexual health should be done with consideration of these potential side effects, and it is always wise to consult with a healthcare provider if there are any concerns.

Read Also: Weight gain, weight loss or diabetes control: Do’s and don’ts of eating fruits for your health goals