NewsHealthCardiac HealthHe said it actively supports vascular repair, arterial youth and heart performanceNeil Shaw Assistant Editor (Money and Lifestyle)11:39, 02 Jul 2026Updated 14:02, 02 Jul 2026A cardiologist has shared the most “underrated” item to boost your heart health, and it's already in your kitchen. Dr Francesco Lo Monaco , founder of the National Heart Clinic on Harley Street, has explained one of the best foods for your cardiovascular system..‌“Beetroot is one of those foods that looks simple, but works on your cardiovascular system in remarkable ways,” said Dr Lo Monaco.‌He said beetroot 'is rich in natural nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide, a molecule that tells your blood vessels to relax'. Dr Lo Monaco said: “This means better circulation, lower blood pressure, and a healthier endothelium, the inner lining of your vessels.”‌He added: “Beetroot helps your arteries stay elastic, something medications alone can't always achieve.”‌Beetroot's circulation-boosting qualities also help deliver more oxygen to your muscles. including your heart, which can improve energy levels and overall cardiovascular performance. There's a lesser-known recovery benefit too. “Beetroot can reduce the damage caused when blood flow returns to the heart after being temporarily restricted,” Dr Lo Monaco said.For people managing existing health conditions, the case for adding beetroot to your diet gets even stronger. “Hypertension, diabetes, inflammation, high homocysteine - beetroot supports many of the pathways that become dysfunctional in these conditions,” Dr Lo Monaco said.The benefits don't stop at the heart. Research points to beetroot's positive effects on brain blood flow, something Dr Lo Monaco said is particularly relevant for women, where vascular changes accelerate after the menopause.Article continues belowBeetroot, which often gets added to picnic food, retains much of its benefits in various forms, whether raw, roasted or even the vacuum-packed variety from the supermarket. You can add a few servings to your weekly meals.Dr Lo Monaco said it won't replace prescription medication, but it's a simple and affordable way to build a more consistent approach to heart health. “Beetroot actively supports vascular repair, arterial youth, and heart performance in ways most people never hear about,” he said. "Making small changes such as this is how you improve retention and longevity.”Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Blood pressurePrescriptionsMenopauseHeart attackHeart diseaseFitness And HealthMen's HealthGood HealthHealthy LifestyleHealthy eatingCardiac HealthHealthy LifeBody HealthWomen's healthHealthHealthy Living