This comprehensive review examines the role of beetroot (Beta vulgaris) in mitigating folic acid deficiency and its associated health risks. The article explains how inadequate folate intake can lead to conditions such as megaloblastic anemia, neural tube defects, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, and cancer due to impaired DNA synthesis and one-carbon metabolism. Beetroot is highlighted as a rich natural source of folate, dietary nitrates, betalains, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals, which together provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. The review discusses the biochemical mechanisms through which beetroot compounds support folate metabolism, reduce homocysteine levels, enhance nitric oxide availability, protect DNA integrity, and improve vascular and cognitive function. It also explores the potential of beetroot as a functional food ingredient and a plant-based alternative to synthetic folic acid supplementation, particularly in populations at high risk of folate deficiency.
Resource type:
Peer review