Potencial ergogênico da beterraba: uma revisão da literatura sobre os efeitos do nitrato no desempenho esportivo.

Abstract

Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) is a vegetable belonging to the Chenopodiaceae family, rich in vitamins, minerals, and biologically active phytonutrients. It has been widely used by individuals engaged in sports activities with the aim of improving performance. Its main nutrient related to performance enhancement is nitrate, being considered a vegetable with high levels of this compound. It acts as a precursor of nitric oxide, responsible for promoting vasodilation and improving the transport of oxygen and nutrients into cells. Thus, the present study aims to evaluate, through a literature review, whether the consumption of beetroot prior to physical activity contributes to improved performance in both professional and amateur athletes. For this research, the databases PubMed, SciELO, Scopus (Elsevier), and ↑irtual Health Library (↑HL) were used. To obtain the articles, keywords and descriptors related to beetroot juice supplementation, nitrate, and physical performance were applied. After applying eligibility criteria and removing duplicates, the relevant studies were selected for analysis. A total of 17 articles were included in the review. In general, the studies mainly involved male participants and physically active individuals or athletes. The results indicate that beetroot juice supplementation may promote improvements in physical performance variables, such as power, muscular endurance, time trial performance, and rating of perceived exertion. The evidence suggests that beetroot juice supplementation may have ergogenic effects in different exercise modalities. However, these effects may vary according to the level of physical fitness, type of exercise, and sex of the individuals, highlighting the need for further studies, especially including women.