What Eating Beets Causes: Common Side Effects and Safety Warnings
While eating beets is safe and beneficial for most people, there are important side effects and contraindications to keep in mind:
- Beeturia (Pink or Red Urine/Stool): Harmlessly occurs in up to 14% of the population. The red pigment (betanin) passes through the digestive tract without fully breaking down, temporarily turning urine or stool pink or red.
- Kidney Stone Risk: Beets are very high in oxalates. If you have a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones, eating large amounts of beets may increase your risk of stone formation.
- Potential Gout Flare-ups: High-oxalate foods can occasionally trigger symptoms in individuals prone to gout or specific metabolic conditions.
- Interactions with Blood Pressure Medication: Because beets naturally lower blood pressure, consuming concentrated beet supplements alongside antihypertensive medications could cause blood pressure to drop too low. Always consult a healthcare professional.
