What Is Nitric Oxide?
Nitric oxide —abbreviated as “NO” —is a gas. We make it naturally within our blood vessels. It plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the body. Some of the things nitric oxide does include:
- lowers blood pressure
- improves erections
- helps cells communicate with each other
- helps the immune system function
While beets can boost nitric oxide levels, so too can exercise and eat green vegetables.
SuperBeets Ingredients
One teaspoon (about 5 grams) is the equivalent of 3 organic beets. In one in teaspoon there are the following ingredients:
| Calories | 15 | % DV |
| Total fat | 0g | 0% |
| Sodium | 10 mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 85mg | 2% |
| Sugars | 3 g | N/A |
| Protein | 0g | N/A |
The product website also states that SuperBeets contains:
- Non-GMO beetroot crystals
- Malic acid
- Stevia leaf extract
- Natural flavors (they don’t say what those flavors are)
The beets used in the product are organically grown. Also, all beets are grown in the US. The website also states that SuperBeets is made in a facility that processes soy, milk, eggs, nuts wheat. This is valuable information for people with allergies to these foods.
SuperBeets Research
One of the pages at HumanN.com (formally Neogensis.com) did list some research studies. Here is a summary of the research I found (update: these studies are no longer found on the site):
A study that described how nitrates can alter gene expression.
Another investigation describes how nitric oxide may have hormone-like effects in mice. This study did not involve SuperBeets.
A review that discusses the potential benefits of eating plant sources of nitrates and nitrites. This paper does not discuss SuperBeets.
A paper describing the heart protection effects of nitrates in foods. This paper does not discuss SuperBeets.
There is also an interesting investigation showing people who took a nitric oxide supplement had a 72% reduction in triglycerides after taking the supplement for only 30 days. The supplement used is not SuperBeets but another supplement made by the same company called Neo40.
Another paper describes how 1 person who took the Neo40 supplement had lower blood pressure after taking the supplement for 9 months.
SuperBeets and Exercise
Beetroot juice is reputed to help boost exercise performance. There is research on this.
For example, This study noted beetroot juice improved kayak performance under laboratory conditions.
Another investigation found beetroot juice appeared to help exercise performance in swimmers.
Conversely, this clinical trial, showed beetroot juice did not help cycling ability or blood pressure in people with lung problems.
Beetroot juice is said to open up blood vessels to improve circulation. But, in this investigation, there was no vasodilation (opening up) of the brachial artery at rest or during exercise.
When researchers gave nitrate supplements to professional cyclists it didn't help them ride the bike any better.
Ironically this study found the opposite – beetroot juice did help cyclists perform better on the bike.
Who Makes SupeBeets?
The company is called HumanN (formally NeoGenis Labs). Their website is HumanN.com. The company address is 1120 S Capital of Texas Highway Building 1, Suite 210 Austin, TX 78746.
An older name, not used any longer appears to be NLogix Labs. The BBB gives HumanN an A rating.” See the BBB file for updates
Contact SuperBeets
Call the customer support number at 888-556-9747. Another contact number is 855-636-4040.
The product can also be ordered directly from their website.
How to Return SuperBeets
When buying from the HumanN website, SuperBeets has a 30-day money-back guarantee. The supplement must be returned in its original packaging. To Return SuperBeets call 1-888-898-5872 and obtain a Return Authorization Number (RMA number) first. This number must be written on the outside of the package to be returned. Customer service will give you the address to return the product and any other necessary instructions.
Terms And Conditions
If you look at the Terms and Conditions Page of HumanN, numbers 14 and 15 of the page describe how people waive certain rights when purchasing products from the website. This includes the inability to take part in class action lawsuits and going through binding arbitration. Many companies have similar stipulations as a way of protecting themselves. This makes sense to me. I wanted to point this out in case it matters to someone.
SuperBeets FAQ
1 Does it improve energy
Does the supplement improve energy like caffeine? No this is unlikely.
2 Does it contain added sugar?
No. A teaspoon has 3 grams of naturally occurring sugar from beets. There are no added sugars.
3 Does SuperBeets have vitamin C?
Yes, and quite a good amount. A teaspoon has 50 mg which is 83% of the RDA for vitamin C.
4 Will it turn my urine red?
It's possible Superbeets will make your urine look red, the same way juicing beets may. This is nothing to worry about.
5 Is SuperBeets bad for kidneys?
Beets are a source of oxalates, compounds that can cause kidney stones. There's no evidence Superbeets causes kidney stones. If you are at risk of kidney stones talk to your doctor.
6 Are beets organic?
Yes.
7 SuperBeets and Neo 40: better together?
While the company says the supplements were designed to work synergistically with each other, there's no clinical evidence. The HumanN company cautions against using more than 1 Neo40 tablet and 10g of SuperBeets within 24 hours.
My advice is to try one by itself first and see how you feel.
Can Beets Become Toxic?
Beets are a source of nitrates. Nitrates help us make nitric oxide. In medicine, there is a condition called nitrate tolerance. Basically, the nitrates stop working. The body gets used to them and they no longer improve nitric oxide levels. This can happen with drugs like nitroglycerin tablets used by people with heart disease.
So what about food? Can the nitrates in foods cause nitrate intolerance too? This is unlikely because the nitrates from food are inorganic (naturally occurring nitrates) while those used in medicine are organic (synthetic nitrates).
When in doubt, ask a dietitian or cardiologist.
Super Beets Side Effects
Superbeets are likely safe for most people. The supplement has been around for a number of years and no bad issues seem common. Here's a list of things to consider if you're not healthy. This list is not complete:
- Start with less than recommended for the first week
- Don't use more than 2 scoops (10 grams) per day
- SuperBeets is made in a facility that processes soy, milk, eggs, nuts wheat
- Beets may turn urine or bowel movements orange/red but this is harmless
- Hypertension? Ask your doctor. Nitric oxide can lower blood pressure
- Talk to your doctor if you take Viagra or other ED medication
- Stop taking beetroot juice supplements at least 2 weeks before having surgery
- If you have cancer talk to your doctor. Some evidence suggests nitric oxide may promote some forms of cancer.
SuperBeets vs. Beets
Can’t' you juice beets and get the same effect? It's possible. It's worth remembering some studies have used beetroot juice rather than beet juice supplements. In general, 4 oz of beetroot juice has about 300 mg of natural nitrates.
Here is the juicer I use and it works very well.
Does SuperBeets Work?
SuperBeets is an interesting supplement and some research appears to show it raises nitric oxide levels. Whether this means the supplement improves exercise performance or better overall health will need better studies.
Here it is on Amazon check out with others are saying
Thanks for bringing this topic up. I like the way you present and argue all the details in addition to your general writing style.
Sometimes, there is a scarcity of time to study long bits, but yours is short and concise, I spent just a few minutes to read the whole article.
It’s vital since no one has sufficient time to browse.
Barham, thanks so much for saying that. I appreciate it.
I share your opinion for the most part, I think that a few points are worth having a more thorough look to understand what is going on.
Walter, I’m always open to seeing new research on this topic to better understand things better.
The article was instead catching and interesting enough to get all probable nuances to remember.
I really do get pleasure from studying the content and the composing manner of the author, etc..
Pastrana, thanks so much. you have quite a way with words yourself 🙂
How can you find numerous facts? I enjoy the way that you organize everything, as it is actually easy to read.
All in all, I will recommend this guide to everyone who’s interested in that topic.
Thanks Milton, I’ve been writing about dietary supplements for over 20 years. I guess I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way.
It does not say
9 carbs and stevia
I would think very low
Tony, ok that’s not too bad. If it doesn’t list sugar then it likely densest have any. Just wanted to make sure. too much sugar can raise triglycerides so that’s why I was curious.
The only thing I have changed since my physical is I went to 2400 kyolic aged garlic
I was surprised my glucose and tryglerides went up
Everything else stayed the same
I added the heartbeat complete Saturday after I checked my cholesterol
I have never had high glucose so this caught me off guard
I have had high triglycerides before but never worried about glucose
I am going to cut gown on my carbs and hope it was just a spike
Thanks
Tony, my hunch is it was a fluke. Ive been taking kyolic garlic for a few years and my triglycerides and blood sugar are always good.
I would be interested in your take on a product called HeartBeet Complete.
It is similar to super beets but has a few more calories.
I have just started on it and bought 60 days.
First day I tried it I have to say the taste is really good.
Thanks
Hi Tony, I’ll add it to my list. I’ll see what I can do. Glad Heart Beat Complete tastes good. Does it say how much sugar it has?
WOW! I love the information you’ve provided about SuperBeets. Thank You, as I’m looking to help my Dad (88 years young ????), and is always looking to keep himself healthy. He’s always been athletic, and as a result he had his second hip replacement a year ago (both hips have now been replaced).
He’s always had circulation problems due to the type of work he did as an elevator installer, thus in Michigan he worked many cold winters without proper warm shoes & gloves back in the ‘50’s through the early ‘90’s. Too dangerous for his type of work with no special apparel at that point.
Fast forward to today … he’s an avid golfer, bowler, does do some weight lifting and played softball until he was 65. The circulation in his legs, feet & hands are worsening since his hip surgeries, thus keeping him from playing as his mind wants him to. I’m also noticing some worsening of memory (not dangerously), but he is 88 years young and I know some memory loss is normal.
I saw a commercial this morning about “SuperBeets” and immediately got online to read up on it. Everything I’ve read seems positive (except from those who don’t like the taste of beets), but that’s not a problem for him since he loves beets. The only 3 Medical issues he has is high blood pressure, (taking medication for), prostrate issues (taking medication for), and has had several skin cancer problems with laser removal but never chemo or radiation.
With all of this being said, his doctor says he’s healthier than most 50-60 year olds, because he’s active and has kept his weight within 5 lbs. since high school. From what I’ve read, I feel he’d benefit from this product, but would like some input (I’d never hold any advice as legal), I just would like to know what you and others think.
ALSO, (sorry this is so long & detailed), my father in law lives with us due to moderate dementia, with memory failure noticeable in the 3 months he’s been here. He’s on Coumadin, and blood pressure pills and taking Iron & Potassium. I haven’t found anything about Coumadin or blood thinners but fear that Beets may be one of those things like green leafy vegetables to stay away from. (Vitamin K being what’s depleted if certain foods are mixed with Coumadin).
Would you please give me any information you may know in regards to this too please? Thank You ????
Sincerely, Joanne (Love my Daddy & love caregiving for my father in law).
Hi Joanne, first let me say I am so glad that you are able to care for both your dad and father in law. They are so lucky to have you and Im sure you are getting a lot of enjoyment out of having them both live with you. You are indeed very lucky.
About the superbeets, while I dont think there would be a problem, why dont you ask his pharmacist about any possible interactions with his meds. Its my experience pharmasists are pretty good with supplement/medication interactions. Superbeets is pretty popular so I’m sure they have heard of it.
While beets may be relatively low in vitamin K, when it comes to coumadin, its definitely worth considering. Some people have told me that as long as they adjust the coumadin (per doctor instructions) they are able to eat vitamin K foods.
I wonder if its possible to have both your father in law and dad do some type of regular aerobic exercise like riding a stationary bike or treadmill/elliptical. There is growing evidence that there is a strong relationship between heart health and brain health. whats good for one is good for the other. Because of their limitations I think a recumbent stationary bike or elliptical might be best overall. Its just a though but you might be able to this relatively cheap on craigslist.
I’m very sorry it’s taken so long to get back to you Joanne. I’ve been dealing with some website problems and this is the first I’ve been able to access the site.
Keep me posted on how your dad and father-in-law are doing and if you have any other questions, just ask.
My blood pressure fluctuates from 190/85 to 130/78. I bleed easily. I have acid reflux ( previously had Barrettes esophagus) and take pantaprozole once a day. Should i be taking Super Beets supplement?
Hi James, ask your pharmacist. While I dont think it will hurt you, I’d like to get your pharmacists input given your blood pressure issues.
Hello:
Great article, but I believe the following is a mis-statement.
“Might natural nitrates from food (or supplements) also cause nitrate tolerance? Well, the nitrates from food are inorganic (naturally occurring nitrates) while those used in medicine are organic (synthetic nitrates).”
I am not a chemist, but I believe that the nitrates in food are ORGANIC, and those used in medicine are INORGANIC.
Just wanted to clarify.
Hi Jeffrey, thanks so much. This issue of organic vs inorganic nitrates in food has come up in the comments before. I believe I am correct though. If you look at this article, http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/90/1/1.full you will see the following statement made in the introduction:”
“These and other findings point to a less widely acknowledged but biologically plausible hypothesis: the content of inorganic nitrate (NO3−) in certain vegetables and fruit can provide a physiologic substrate for reduction to nitrite (NO2−), ”
I think the confusion comes from us equating organic = living and inorganic = non living. Either way, I think you are in good company 🙂
Excellent article and comments. Thanks to all!
David, you are welcome and glad they all helped you 🙂
I’d point out that this is potentially a problematic supplement for pregnant or nursing women. Blue Baby Syndrom is directly related to the consumption of Nitrate as young infants don’t have the necessary enzymes to reduce it efficiently.
Hi Adam, thanks for sharing that. Here is more on Blue Baby Syndrome for those who are interested https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_baby_syndrome
I really appreciate the time and effort you put into this information.
Thank You,
George
Hi George, you are most welcome 🙂
I believe this is simply another mass marketing ploy to get people looking for a quick fix for their issue. If people eat properly, exercise and maintain a decent life style devoid of highly processed foods, alcohol and smoking many of the issues they are trying to resolve will go away or dissipate. People need to take responsibility for their own actions and lifestyles.
Super Beets can be dangerous to people pron to kidney stones made of calcium oxylate. Beets being excedingly high in oxylate which makes stones grow fast and too large for non surgical procedures. Surgery is required to remove them.
People pron to kidney stones should not consume beets, to be
on the safe side.
I do not think I noted any mention of beets not being a good food source if you happen have weak or nearly no functioning kidneys. Especially if one is on dialysis. Beets as noted are very high in potassium and can be harmful if consumed in any liberal amount including an average serving portion. As a kidney patient and having become tired of hearing the “Super Beet” commercial I just had to get the facts. Thanks for a good report.
Hi Ray, thanks for sharing. Good point you bring up.
Ruth is correct. NO is an inorganic compound. A search of any chemistry website or textbook will confirm such. ALL organic cpds must contain C (carbon). No offense intended.
John, none taken. I appreciate the feedback 🙂
In this article you mixed up organic (natural-contains carbon) and inorganic (non-natural i.e. chemical).
HI Ruth, I believe I am correct. Inorganic nitrates come from food. Organic nitrates are in medications.
Ruth is correct. No offense, but a simple search of chemistry sites or textbooks (which i just performed), will confirm that NO is an inorganic compound. Plus, I’ve had 6 yrs of chemistry as a Pharm.D.
Merry Christmas!
js
Hi John, thanks for the feedback. Maybe I am missing something (quite possible. its been a while since I was in chemistry class). in my review I stated “nitrates from food are inorganic (naturally occurring nitrates) while those used in medicine are organic (synthetic nitrates).
Joe, I am now thoroughly confused myself. Please clarify further. This is what I found, what part of this do you disagree with in regards to the superbeets being inorganic? “The primary difference between organic compounds and inorganic compounds is that organic compounds always contain carbon while most inorganic compounds do not contain carbon. Also, almost all organic compounds contain carbon-hydrogen or C-H bonds. Note, containing carbon is not sufficient for a compound to be considered organic!
Examples of Organic Compounds or Molecules
Molecules associated with living organisms are organic. These include nucleic acids, fats, sugars, proteins, enzymes and hydrocarbon fuels.
DNA
table sugar or sucrose, C12H22O11
benzene, C6H6
methane, CH4
ethanol or grain alcohol, C2H6O
Examples of Inorganic Compounds
Inorganics include salts, metals, substances made from single elements and any other compounds that don’t contain carbon bonded to hydrogen.” (http://chemistry.about.com/od/branchesofchemistry/f/What-Is-The-Difference-Between-Organic-And-Inorganic.htm)
Hey Alex, in this study, http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/90/1/1.full :
the authors state: “the content of inorganic nitrate (NO3−) in certain vegetables and fruit can provide a physiologic substrate for reduction to nitrite (NO2−), nitric oxide, and other metabolic products (NOx) that produce vasodilation…”
In this study, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2707969/ : the first sentence mentions organic nitrate drugs
That’s probably where my apparent confusion on this came from. It has been a while since organic chem so if I am in error I’ll admit that. I am, after all, just a carbon-based life form 🙂
Let me clear this up for y’all.
It appears to me that Ruth is using the word “organic” as in natural, as in organically grown, thus her reference of inorganic as being synonymous with chemical, not natural.
Such does not apply in chemistry, where organic deals with the chemistry of carbon. Thus, everyone is correct in the context within which they are using the word organic. (Though, Ruth is incorrect in referencing “inorganic” as being not natural … i.e., there is no such thing as inorganically grown.). 🙂
Thanks Dr. Dean 🙂
You are welcome
Btw, excellent article. Given that the active ingredient in beets with regards to blood pressure is nitrate, I see no reason that it shouldn’t work. I think you referenced the study in Europe that shows beet juice taken for 4 weeks showed a sustained decrease in blood pressure of 8/4, systolic/diastolic. For many of us that would suffice to edge us back to normal. And given it is dietary, and thus must be metabolized to nitric oxide, I see little to no potential for tolerance to develop as is noted for the medications . Of course, those medications are for treatment of acute angina attacks, for which beets would be useless.
Anyway, thanks again for the reference materials.
Dr. Dean, happy to help and thanks for the nice words. I agree its an interesting supplement. I’m hoping more will share their blood pressure responses while on SuperBeets.