Every February we celebrate American Heart Month, encouraging healthy eating in support of heart disease preventation. In honor of this month, we're sharing some recipes like this Beet Apple Ginger Juice that is loaded with ingredients known to support heart health.

beet root

Let's start with the beets.

You're probably thinking, beets in a smoothie? But hear us out! While beets are known for their earthy flavor, they also have some floral notes and a hint of sweetness. Pairing them with certain ingredients, like the apples and carrots in this recipe, brings out that sweetness even more.

And it just so happens that beets are really good for your heart. They are rich in nitrates that help with blood flow and blood pressure which can reduce your risk of heart attacks, heart failture and stroke. Pro Tip #1: Dietary nitrates are water soluble, so it's best to avoid boiling beets to maximize their nitrate content. This recipe calls for them raw, so just another bonus! They are also a great source of antioxidants including, betanin, that give the beet its gorgeous ruby red color.

green apples

Moving on to the apple.

Everyone's heard the saying, 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away', but what about the heart doctor? There is actually a good amount of research showing that apples have a protective effect on the heart. They are high in soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and they contain polyphenols, which are linked to lower blood pressure and stroke risk. Pro Tip #2: Those polyphenols are concentrated in the peel, so make sure to throw that into your smoothie!

Amazing flavor. Supports heart health & overall health

Every single ingredients in this recipe is loaded with a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants as well as fiber that make this plant-based whole food recipe an excellent choice to work into your smoothie rotation.