The Science Behind Beetroot
At the core of any beetroot supplement, including Total Beets Soft Chews, is the vegetable's high concentration of dietary nitrates. Once ingested, these inorganic nitrates trigger a biochemical cascade in the body.
How Nitric Oxide Production Works
- Ingestion: You consume the nitrates from beetroot or a supplement.
- Salivary Conversion: Bacteria in your mouth convert nitrate ($NO_3$) to nitrite ($NO_2$).
- Stomach Acid: In the acidic environment of the stomach, some nitrite is converted into nitric oxide (NO).
- Bloodstream Absorption: The remaining nitrite is absorbed into the bloodstream.
- Hypoxia-Induced Conversion: Under low-oxygen conditions, such as during intense exercise, this nitrite is converted into nitric oxide, particularly in muscle tissue.
This increase in nitric oxide is significant because NO is a potent vasodilator, meaning it helps relax and widen blood vessels. Wider blood vessels allow for improved blood flow, more efficient oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, and lower blood pressure.
Total Beets Soft Chews: Key Ingredients
To understand if Total Beets Soft Chews really work, it's crucial to look beyond just the beetroot. The formula includes a blend of ingredients designed to maximize the nitric oxide pathway and provide additional benefits.
- Beetroot Powder and Extract (NO3-T Nitrates): Provides the foundational nitrates necessary for nitric oxide production.
- MegaNatural-BP Grapeseed Extract: A patented ingredient clinically shown to support healthy blood pressure within the normal range.
- L-Citrulline: An amino acid that helps increase nitric oxide production, with studies showing it can enhance exercise performance.
- B Vitamins: Essential for energy metabolism and overall cardiovascular health.
Do Total Beets Soft Chews Deliver on Their Promises?
The effectiveness of Total Beets is a nuanced topic, with results often depending on individual health status, consistency, and expectations.
Supporting Heart-Healthy Energy
Many users report a noticeable boost in sustained, heart-healthy energy without the jitters associated with caffeine. This is likely a combined effect of the improved circulation from nitric oxide and the supplement's B vitamin complex. For those looking to replace stimulant-heavy energy drinks, this can be a healthier alternative.
Boosting Athletic Performance
Scientific evidence suggests that increased nitric oxide can improve athletic performance, particularly endurance. By improving oxygen efficiency, athletes may experience a delay in exhaustion. Some users and studies confirm this, reporting improved running and cycling performance and greater stamina after consistent use. The inclusion of L-citrulline further supports muscle endurance and blood flow.
Blood Pressure Support
This is one of the most widely studied areas for beet-based supplements. Multiple studies confirm that dietary nitrates can lead to modest, temporary reductions in blood pressure. The inclusion of MegaNatural-BP in some Total Beets versions, a grapeseed extract clinically supported for blood pressure, adds another layer of scientific backing. However, it is a tool for supporting normal blood pressure, not a replacement for prescribed medication.
Comparing Total Beets Soft Chews with Other Forms
To see if the chews are the right choice for you, it's helpful to compare them against other beetroot delivery methods.
| Feature | Total Beets Soft Chews | Beetroot Powder | Fresh Beetroot Juice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High (individually wrapped, portable) | Medium (requires mixing) | Low (requires juicing/preparation) |
| Taste | Berry flavored to mask earthy taste | Earthy, can be masked in smoothies | Strong, earthy taste; may cause mouth stains |
| Nitrate Content | Standardized, premium (NO3-T) | Variable, depends on brand and processing | Variable, depends on freshness and source |
| Cost | Typically higher per serving | Lower per serving | Can be expensive depending on fresh produce cost |
| Added Nutrients | Often includes grapeseed extract, L-citrulline, B vitamins | Typically pure beetroot, few added ingredients | High in nutrients and fiber (before juicing) |
User Experiences and Potential Side Effects
User reviews are mixed but generally positive regarding effectiveness. Many praise the palatable acai berry flavor and convenience, contrasting it with the strong earthy taste of pure beet juice. However, some note a mild chalky texture. The most commonly reported side effect is beeturia, a harmless red or pink discoloration of urine or stool, which indicates the presence of beetroot pigments. Sensitive individuals may also experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the fiber content.
Potential Side Effects:
- Beeturia: Harmless discoloration of urine and stool.
- Digestive Issues: Some experience mild bloating or gas due to fiber.
- Blood Pressure Drop: A significant intake, especially combined with medication, could lead to a drop in blood pressure. Always consult a doctor if you are on medication for hypertension.
Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Effectiveness
Does Total Beets Soft Chews really work? The answer is nuanced, but the evidence is encouraging. The supplement leverages the well-established science of dietary nitrates, converting them into nitric oxide for vasodilation. By combining beetroot extract with other beneficial ingredients like grapeseed extract and L-citrulline, it targets improved circulation, energy, and athletic performance.
For many, especially those who are sensitive to the taste of pure beets, the chews offer a convenient and palatable way to consume these nitrates. However, individual results will vary, and consistent, long-term use alongside a healthy diet is key to experiencing the full effects. For conditions like high blood pressure, it should be seen as a complementary support rather than a standalone treatment. As with any supplement, consulting with a healthcare professional before beginning is a wise step.
For more in-depth research on beetroot supplementation, see the National Institutes of Health (NIH) publications on the topic.
