Beetroot Tonic

Beetroot Tonic (Beet Kvass)

Beet Kvass is a medicinal fermented tonic of Russian origin that has been part of Slavic culinary tradition for centuries. In the GAPS protocol, it is one of the most recommended probiotics due to its simplicity, effectiveness, and wealth of benefits.

What Is Beet Kvass?

It is a fermented beverage made from raw beets, filtered water, and sea salt. The lacto-fermentation process transforms the beet's natural sugar into lactic acid, creating a probiotic drink with an earthy, slightly sour flavor.

Benefits

For the Digestive System

• Rich in beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus) that colonize the gut
• Stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach
• Improves intestinal motility
• Aids in fat digestion (stimulates bile)

For the Liver

Beets are known for their hepatoprotective properties. Beet kvass:

• Supports hepatic detoxification (phases 1 and 2)
• Provides betaine, which protects liver cells
• Assists in fat metabolism in the liver

For the Blood

• Rich in bioavailable iron
• Contains natural nitrates that improve circulation
• Helps alkalinize the blood
• Supports healthy blood pressure

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 medium organic beets
• 1 tablespoon unrefined sea salt
• Filtered water (chlorine-free)
• Optional: 2 tablespoons yogurt whey or sauerkraut juice (as a starter)

Preparation

• Wash the beets well and peel if not organic
• Cut into cubes approximately 2cm (3/4 inch) — do not grate (grating releases too much sugar and can produce alcohol instead of lactic acid)
• Place the cubes in a 2-liter (half-gallon) glass jar
• Add the salt and starter (if using)
• Fill with filtered water, leaving 3cm (1 inch) of space at the top
• Cover with cloth and secure with a rubber band
• Let it ferment at room temperature for 3 to 5 days
• Strain and transfer to a glass bottle
• Store in the refrigerator

Second Fermentation

The same beet cubes can be used for a second batch by adding water and salt again. The second batch will be milder. After the second extraction, discard the cubes or compost them.

How to Consume

• Start with 1 tablespoon per day
• Gradually increase to 1/4 cup, 2 to 3 times per day
• Drink on an empty stomach or 20 minutes before meals
• Observe reactions: gas or discomfort indicates the need to reduce the dose

Beet kvass is one of the oldest and simplest remedies in Slavic tradition. Three ingredients, five days, and you have a powerful medicinal tonic.