When Beets Might Cause Side Effects (Rare & Specific)
While beets are very safe for most people, there are a few harmless or situational effects worth knowing about.
1. Red or Pink Urine or Stool (Beeturia)
This is completely harmless and caused by natural beet pigments.
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Affects about 10–14% of people
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More common in those with low stomach acid or iron deficiency
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Not blood — just nature doing its thing
2. Kidney Stones (Only for At-Risk Individuals)
Beets contain oxalates, which may contribute to kidney stones only if:
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You have a history of calcium-oxalate stones
Helpful tips:
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Stay well hydrated
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Pair beets with calcium-rich foods (calcium helps bind oxalates in digestion)
3. Lower Blood Pressure
Beets naturally lower blood pressure.
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If you’re on BP medication, levels may drop more than expected
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Not dangerous, but something to monitor with your doctor
4. Digestive Sensitivity
Because beets are high in fiber and FODMAPs:
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Some people with IBS may experience gas or bloating
Solution: Start small — about ¼ cup cooked beets.
Common Beet Myths — Debunked
❌ “Beets cause anemia”
False. Beets are rich in folate and support red blood cell production.
❌ “Beet juice is toxic”
Not true. Beet juice is widely used by athletes and studied extensively for cardiovascular benefits.
❌ “Beets spike blood sugar”
Unlikely. Beets have a low glycemic load (GL ≈ 5 per ½ cup).
The Bottom Line
For the vast majority of people, beets are incredibly healthy.
Those scary headlines claiming doctors warn against beets are almost always:
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Clickbait
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Taken out of context
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Designed to drive engagement, not educate
Unless you have a specific medical condition (like recurring kidney stones), there is no medical reason to avoid beets.
❤️ Eat your beets. Your future self will thank you.
If you have health concerns, always talk with a qualified doctor or registered dietitian — not a headline that ends with “see the first comment.”
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Let’s Talk!
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