Core Active Ingredients
The foundation of beet chews lies in their active, health-promoting ingredients, which typically include different forms of beetroot and other powerful supplements. These components are responsible for the purported benefits, such as supporting heart health and energy levels.
Beetroot Powder and Extract
The primary active ingredient in all beet chews is beetroot, most often appearing as a concentrated powder or extract.
- Beetroot Powder: Created by dehydrating and grinding whole beets, this powder contains natural nitrates, betalains, and other nutrients.
- Beetroot Extract: A more concentrated form, extracts are often standardized to contain a specific percentage of nitrates for consistent dosing.
Nitrates
Beets are naturally rich in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a vasodilator, meaning it helps relax and widen blood vessels, promoting improved blood flow and circulation. Many products explicitly list nitrates on their labels.
Grape Seed Extract
Clinically studied grape seed extract is another frequent addition to beet chew formulas. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect nitric oxide from degradation by free radicals, thus supporting its availability in the body for healthy circulation and blood pressure. Some formulas specify the type, such as the French Grape Seed Extract used in SuperBeets Heart Chews.
L-Citrulline
Some beet chew products include the amino acid L-citrulline. The body can convert L-citrulline into L-arginine, another compound that helps create nitric oxide. This offers an additional pathway to boost nitric oxide production and enhance cardiovascular support.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Advanced beet chew formulations, such as Humann's SuperBeets Heart Chews Advanced, may contain Coenzyme Q10. CoQ10 is an antioxidant that plays a vital role in cellular energy production and is particularly important for heart muscle function.
Inactive Ingredients and Sweeteners
To create a pleasant-tasting and texturally appealing chew, manufacturers add a range of inactive ingredients that function as binders, sweeteners, and flavorings.
Sweeteners
Because beetroot has a naturally earthy flavor, sweeteners are crucial for palatability. Common options include:
- Raw Cane Sugar and Tapioca Syrup: These are common choices to provide a sweet, chewy base.
- Stevia Leaf Extract (Rebaudioside A): A natural, zero-calorie sweetener used in some formulas to keep sugar content low or eliminate it entirely.
Flavorings and Colorings
Natural flavors, such as acai berry, pomegranate berry, and other fruit concentrates, are added to mask the natural beet taste. Fruit and vegetable juices are often used as natural colorings.
Binders and Emulsifiers
To achieve the chewable texture, binders and emulsifiers are used:
- Rice Bran: Provides structure and chewiness.
- Sunflower Lecithin: An emulsifier that helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Palm Oil/Sunflower Oil: Used to achieve a soft consistency.
Comparison of Popular Beet Chew Ingredients
| Ingredient Category | Force Factor Total Beets | Humann SuperBeets Heart Chews |
|---|---|---|
| Beetroot Source | Powder and Extract (std. for nitrates) | Non-GMO Beetroot Powder (500mg) |
| Key Supporting Nutrient | Grapeseed Extract, L-Citrulline | French Grape Seed Extract (150mg) |
| Energy Boosters | L-Citrulline, Nitrates | Grape Seed Extract, Nitrates |
| Sweeteners | Raw Cane Sugar, Rice Syrup | Raw Cane Sugar, Tapioca Syrup, Stevia |
| Distinctive Features | Blends powder and extract; contains L-citrulline. | Higher-end formula may include CoQ10. |
| Targeted Benefit | Heart-healthy energy and circulation. | Blood pressure support and heart health. |
Considerations for Choosing Beet Chews
When selecting a beet chew, it's wise to read the label carefully to match the product to your health goals. For some individuals, the exact ingredients and additional compounds are particularly important.
Added Sugar
While sweeteners improve taste, they can add calories and sugar to your diet. Individuals managing their sugar intake or watching their weight should be mindful of the added sugar content. Some brands offer sugar-free alternatives sweetened with stevia.
Third-Party Testing
For quality and purity assurance, look for products that have been third-party tested. Certifications like NSF Certified for Sport or GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) indicate that the product has been vetted for quality and potency standards.
Additional Ingredients
Evaluate the additional ingredients to see if they align with your needs. Some chews include other vitamins and minerals, while others focus on a core set of ingredients. For instance, some may include extra B vitamins for energy.
Who Should Be Cautious?
While generally safe, certain individuals should exercise caution or consult a doctor before taking beet chews:
- Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Because nitrates can lower blood pressure, those with already low blood pressure should be careful.
- Diabetics: Due to added sugars, diabetics should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully.
- Kidney Stones: Beets contain high levels of oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals.
- Certain Medications: Beetroot can interact with some blood pressure and anticoagulant medications.
Conclusion
Beet chews offer a convenient and palatable way to consume the nutritional benefits of beetroot. The core active ingredients—beetroot powder or extract, nitrates, and often grape seed extract—work synergistically to support cardiovascular health and boost energy. Inactive ingredients like sugars, flavorings, and binders ensure the chewable format is enjoyable. When choosing a product, comparing labels for specific nutrient blends, added sugar content, and third-party testing can help you find the best fit for your dietary needs and health goals.
For more information on the science behind beetroot's health effects, see the Cleveland Clinic's detailed resource on the topic.
