The effect of single-dose beetroot juice on the blood pressure and cognition of healthy older versus younger adult

In today's society, rates of disease and age-related dysfunction continue to grow at a rapid speed. This has led to an increased interest in the use of food-based supplements such as beetroot juice. Beetroot juice contains nitrate and has been shown to reduce blood pressure, improve cardiovascular function and improve exercise performance. Furthermore, recent evidence has indicated that increased nitric oxide (the bio-active form of nitrate) may have effects on increased blood flow to the brain leading to improved cognition and mood in older adults. However, research in this area is limited and few studies have looked at the effects of beetroot juice when comparing younger and older adults. Overall aim: Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the effects of acute nitrate supplementation, from beetroot juice as a breakfast food, on cognition, mood and cardiovascular responses in younger (18-30) versus older adults (50-70).