Acute Effects of Beetroot Juice on Locomotor Economy and Capacity in Chronic Stroke

The purpose of this study is to investigate if a beetroot juice supplement can improve oxygen capacity during walking tasks at a submaximal and maximal effort in people greater than 6 months following stroke.

Inclusion Criteria:adults aged 18-89 yearsdiagnosis of chronic hemiparesis following unilateral stroke (greater than six months)ability to ambulate at least 0.3 m/s, with or without using an assistive device or bracing below the kneeability to read and understand Englishfollow three-step commandsExclusion Criteria:presence of cerebellar deficitsany other neurological or orthopedic deficits that would limit walking abilitysmokingcannot receive physical therapy for gait-related impairmentsuncontrolled metabolic, respiratory, and cardiovascular disease