Benefits Of Vegging Out

Eating your greens doesn’t just top up your vitamin intake. James Moore reveals some of the more surprising health advantages of a high-veg diet...

- James Moore

Can’t be beet

Did you know that eating beetroot could make you run faster?

An Exeter University study found that beetroot was associated with better sprint times, while other research identified a 16 per cent boost in endurance.

The key is the nitrates beets contain, which increase the energy available to muscle cells.

Scientists at Northumbria University also found beetroot could aid muscle recovery after a workout.

Veg Viagra

Celery is often overlooked, but it contains naturally occurring androstenone, a steroid that can increase pheromones in men’s sweat and make them more attractive to women.

Eating celery also helps blood flow to the sexual organs, while watercress is linked to a higher sperm count.

Glow for it

A veg-rich diet gives you a healthy glow. Scientists at St Andrews University found that just two additional portions a day of orangey-red fruit and veg, such as carrots and red peppers, was enough to create a noticeable change in skin colour in as little as six weeks.

Cartoon caper

Popeye’s muscles bulge when he eats spinach, and yours will too.