Beet nitrate, found in beetroot juice and supplements, has attracted scientific interest for potential cardiovascular and cerebrovascular benefits, including possible support in stroke recovery. The primary mechanism involves dietary nitrate being converted to nitric oxide in the body, which can promote vasodilation, improve blood flow, and enhance endothelial function. These properties are theoretically beneficial in conditions like stroke, where impaired blood flow to the brain is central to the pathology.

Some small-scale clinical studies and preclinical research suggest that increased nitric oxide availability from beet nitrate supplementation may improve cerebral blood flow and cognitive performance in older adults and patients with vascular risk factors. For example, a 2011 study by Presley et al. found increased perfusion in brain areas related to executive functioning after beetroot juice supplementation in older adults. However, direct evidence for beet nitrate improving outcomes after acute stroke is limited. Most research focuses on prevention or recovery of cognitive function rather than acute treatment or reduction of stroke severity.

Overall, while the mechanism is plausible and there is some supportive data for improved blood flow and cognitive function, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically targeting stroke patients are lacking. Therefore, current evidence justifies only a modest rating.