Dr Tosin Sotubo-Ajayi said experts have carried out research on the benefits of this drink
Andrew Nuttall U35 Lifestyle Writer
15:44, 17 Feb 2026
Beetroot juice could contain nutrients that may ‘lower blood pressure'(Image: Nungning20 via Getty Images)
People who have high blood pressure may benefit from drinking a glass of red-coloured juice each day, according to medical advice. Studies have found this vegetable-based drink could have effects similar to “some forms of blood pressure medication”.
During an appearance on BBC’s Morning Live, Dr Tosin Sotubo-Ajayi highlighted that high blood pressure poses a significant health threat with potentially severe consequences. Describing it as a “silent killer”, the NHS GP explained the widespread condition typically worsens progressively while producing virtually no noticeable warning signs.
While discussing the topic, host Gethin Jones asked the doctor for his expert opinion on a particular red drink he’d read about online, which supposedly helps with the problem. The Morning Live presenter mentioned he’d discovered information about beetroot’s possible benefits – particularly in juice form – for reducing blood pressure.
Dr Tosin said: “I quite like a little bit of beetroot juice, but it is an odd taste. Research has found that a glass of beetroot juice a day could possibly lower your blood pressure.”
The healthcare professional warned that such research involved relatively small sample sizes. She had earlier emphasised that patients should use every available method to manage blood pressure, including medicine alongside dietary and lifestyle changes as recommended by their own doctor, reports the Mirror.
Dr Tosin Sotubo-Ajayi was asked about this drink during a BBC Morning Live appearance(Image: BBC Morning Live)
Previously, the British Heart Foundation made similar claims, with studies indicating that people with high blood pressure who consumed 250ml of beetroot juice daily achieved ‘normal’ blood pressure. As Dr Tosin highlighted, the impact is thought to stem from substantial quantities of a compound known as nitrates.
For those who dislike or are unable to consume beetroot, alternative leafy greens such as kale and cabbage contain a similar level of nitrates, according to the British Heart Foundation’s findings. Within the research, scientists noted that the degree of reduction “was similar to that from some forms of blood pressure medication”.
People must never stop taking any prescribed medication without first seeking medical advice. Those considering trying these beetroot benefits should note that, whilst some suggest the vegetable may reduce blood pressure, it’s best to begin with smaller quantities to see how your body reacts.
Beetroots are said to have high levels of blood pressure-lowering nitrates(Image: Lorado via Getty Images)
Ready-made cartons or bottles of beetroot juice are available from supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Holland and Barrett. Alternatively, people can prepare their own juice following recipes such as this one from BBC Good Food.
The NHS has lots of advice on its website about how to combat high blood pressure, as well as who is most at risk. For full details, look online here.