Beetroot Juice Could Help Lung Disease Sufferers Breathe More Easily

Beetroot is being used to help those suffering with lung disease as part of a new trial.

It is hoped that the vegetable’s deep purple juice, which can enhance blood oxygenation levels - will help relieve symptoms of the condition and free up hospital beds.

Patients suffering with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), will be given the juice as part of their rehabilitation process.

Starting from January, they will be given 140ml of the liquid once a week for two months at a cost of up to £400 per person.

It is hoped that symptoms like breathlessness and fatigue will be reduced.

Several major hospitals in the country are taking part in the trial led by the Royal Brompton Hospital, which has the largest specialist heart and lung centre in the UK.

Because of the high levels of nitrates found in beetroot, drinking its juice can enhance blood oxygenation levels.

Dr Syed Husain, consultant respiratory physician, at the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, which is also taking part in the trial, said: “We are looking at ever more innovative, but sometimes simple ways of improving the lives of our patients with chronic respiratory illnesses.

“It is our hope that by improving the care we are able to provide, through the treatment and surroundings, we can help improve our patients’ quality of life and reduce hospital admission.

“If these treatments are found to be useful they could end up being the standard care for the NHS and our patients will have been the first to benefit from them.”

COPD is the country’s third biggest killer and is most commonly caused by smoking, chemical exposure, dust, fumes and air pollution.

Beetroot has been used in medicine since Roman times to treat fevers, skin conditions, constipation and wounds.

It has also been linked with improved blood flow to the brain and fighting dementia, lowering blood pressure and improved stamina.