Does anyone use beet juice on a daily basis to improve aerobic performance?


I saw some forums inside someone introduced beet, it seems there was an episode of trainerroad podcast introduced before, I searched some information, compared to fresh beet or beet powder, the effective content of beet it is very high, but the price is very expensive (unless it is drunk a week before the race, if the usual daily supplementation, it will cost a lot of money).
I don’t know if you have any experience or opinion on this use, if it really works, I hope there is a more convenient and less costly method, such as capsules

It’s called “Beet it”?

Well, now I know for sure it’ll make me faster…maybe even faster on the bike too.

“Nitrate 3000”.

Is it turbo charged?

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In one of the podcasts (all I remember is that Pete was there) they discussed beetroot and said it DOES work, but, they also said it and caffeine don’t stack, so coffee or beets, chose one.

I’ve used it before and it gives me a charge before rides, but it is expensive and I love coffee, so I chose coffee.

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I start each morning with about 6oz of this juice, available at my local Hannaford. A serving ends up being just over $1.

No way to say if it helps. I drink my morning coffee shortly afterwards.

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Caffeine does have an effect, but I may not be able to consume it at night while training and it may interfere with sleep. And in my country, caffeine tablets have been recognized as a prohibited drug and are not available in stores, and I just have a cup of coffee + milk in the morning

The only two studies about beetroot and caffeine effects that I can find have some major flaws if TR is using them to make this statement.

  1. They only tested acute beetroot supplementation (one dose about 2hrs before a TT), while the effective protocol for nitrate supplementation appears to be taking it for 7-10 days prior to the event.

  2. They found no benefit from beetroot alone, so the fact that they also found no added benefit from beet+caffeine compared to caffeine alone doesn’t mean much.

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well, having your coffee directly afterwards will mean you pee more of the good stuff you just took on :smiley:

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Been supplementing with beetroot extract based on nutritionist advice last year and noticed no negative effects but also didn’t have a “boost” as I get with caffeine for example.

There is evidence from studies that my nutrionist had based the recommendation on but in the end I couldn’t be asked to pay for it as I prefer a good pre workout drink with loads of caffeine, larginine beta analine and co. To boost me during intense short rides.

Still looking for any evidence on this. Every time it’s brought up nobody can cite studies.

I was being somewhat sarcastic, but I believe it mainly applies to Iron.

Ironically it is listed at the bottom of this abstract on beet juice :smiley:

if you feel better having it, go for it.

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No but I use citrulline malate for the same purpose, cheaper but it tastes horrible (I add baking soda to neutralize the acidity), I think it does help a bit

Coggan actually wrote a review about the Effect of dietary nitrate on human muscle power

My comment was regarding the idea that caffeine negates the effects of beet juice.

That review cites the two studies I linked above, in the post where I questioned whether any studies back up the idea that caffeine and nitrates don’t stack.

I feel like I heard it even more affirmatively in another pod, but here’s one with them discussing it, and it does include some article links. I didn’t go back and read them (or the ones you posted), so not sure if it gives what you’re after. I have no dog in this fight, just sharing what I heard on the pod. Happiness and Performance, Limiters, Cellular Adaptation & More – Ask a Cycling Coach 200

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I remember that episode. Pretty sure they’re referencing the same two problematic studies that started the whole thing in the first place. Even Chad can’t read every study with a critical eye. Thanks for the link though, I’ll listen again sometime soon.

That said, I can totally see how the two wouldn’t play well together in theory. I just get annoyed when everyone seems to cite “the science” on a particular topic and I can’t find said science. Also no dog in the fight here aside from wanting to know the right way to supplement, if at all.

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I bought a huge amount at a box store when it was on sale. Powdered form. Took it in shakes daily for an entire year til I ran out. I ‘felt’ no difference. I haven’t taken it for a year and am a bit stronger (just bc I have built upon last years fitness). I’d save your money. I don’t regret it but I also didn’t buy it again bc I personally felt no effect while on it and coming off it.

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I’m surprised to hear others say they couldn’t tell a difference. I used a powdered container that gave me a huge zing. It must have contained something additive.

i try to out some actual beets everyday, cause nootrients and wytamins and stuff

I took beet juice daily for an entire season. No noticeable effect positive or negative. Got used to the taste though!