Antioxidant capacity: 1.68 mmol/3.5 oz
With their ability to stain countertops and clothing, it's no wonder that beets are teeming with antioxidants. Nutritionally, beets also provide folate, potassium, vitamin C, and manganese. Beets also contain nitrates that can help relax blood vessels to improve athletic performance, enhance recovery post-exercise, and help manage blood pressure. The antioxidant capacity of beets stems from the betalains they contain, according to research published in Food Science & Nutrition. Beets also provide anti-tumor benefits, which are also thought to be linked to their antioxidant activity.