Accumulation of metal ions in the liver is also associated with excess consumption of beetroot (2). Does this mean you should completely avoid this nutritious food? No – but having it in moderation and noting the ill effects may help minimize the risk. Continue reading to know further about the side effects of beetroot juice and how you can prevent them.
What Are The Side Effects Of Beetroot Juice?
1. Might Cause Beeturia
Beeturia is characterized by the discoloration of urine following the intake of beets or foods colored with beetroots. Urine may range from pink to deep red, and this condition could be prevalent in about 14% of the population and have increased frequency in those with iron deficiency (3). A study conducted on eight individuals showed that the intake of beetroot juice supplements could lead to beeturia in all but one individual (4). For the majority, beeturia happens to be a harmless phenomenon that resolves on its own once the individual reduces the intake of beet/beet juice (3). Jordana Tobelem, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, says, “Beetroot juice is absorbed by the body quickly. Once you drink beetroot juice, you will feel the effects within 2-3 hours, and it may last up to 24 hours. For the best results, it is recommended to drink about 1-2 cups, which is around 310-560 mg.”
2. May Increase Kidney Stone Risk
According to Clinical Nutrition Research, beets are rich in oxalate and may contribute to stone formation (1). If you already have stones, your doctor might recommend you to stop or reduce beetroot/beetroot juice consumption. There are four types of kidney stones, with calcium being the most common of all. The mineral can combine with other substances, especially oxalate, and form a stone. Beetroot is high in oxalate and can directly contribute to kidney stones. It increases urinary oxalate excretion, which can lead to the development of calcium oxalate stones (1).
3. May Cause Anaphylaxis
Though rare, beetroot may cause anaphylaxis, which is an acute allergic reaction to an allergen to which the body has become hypersensitive. In a study, a young girl complained of urticaria (red rashes on the skin that itch intensely, sometimes leading to dangerous swelling) and asthma after ingesting boiled beetroot (5). The girl also experienced hives, throat tightness, and bronchospasm. She has advised a diet free of beetroot, and she had no symptoms again (5).
4. May Cause Colored Stools
Beetroot (and foods with red coloring) may cause stools to appear reddish (6). There is some evidence that beetroot may also cause black and tarry stools due to the presence of altered blood (7). Dark and tarry stools could also be a symptom of beeturia. You may want to visit your doctor and discuss your recent dietary choices and history of similar events (3).
5. May Cause A Stomach Upset
Beetroot contains nitrates*. According to a publication by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, exposure to high levels of nitrates may lead to abdominal cramps (8). The juice may also cause stomach problems in some people (9). According to Jordana Tobelem, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, “The side effects of beetroot juice are rare, but some individuals have reported gastrointestinal side effects. The nitrates in the beetroot juice may cause abdominal cramps in those who already have sensitive stomachs.” *Beetroot and certain other foods contain nitrates, which are converted to nitrites upon ingestion.
6. May Cause Problems During Pregnancy
The nitrates in beets may cause a problem here. Pregnant women are more sensitive to the effects of nitrate. This can be attributed to the natural increase of methemoglobin levels in the blood during the later stage of pregnancy. Excess nitrate can lead to methemoglobinemia (elevated levels of methemoglobin in the blood), causing symptoms like lack of energy, headache, dizziness, blue-gray coloration of skin around the eyes, mouth, lips, hands, and feet (10). Though most epidemiological studies of pregnant women having elevated nitrate levels in their groundwater did not show any negative effects on their offspring, one study found an association between dietary nitrates and an increase in neural tube defects (10).
7. Might Harm The Liver
Studies suppose that extreme intake of table beetroot may cause several disturbances not only in healthy patients but also in those dealing with metal-accumulating diseases (2). Excess intake of the veggie can cause the accumulation of metal ions in the liver (2). In addition, there are no documented drug and beet juice interactions. “Beetroot juice does not have any known drug interactions. However, since beets can have a lowering effect on blood pressure, those who take blood pressure medications should avoid high amounts of beets. Combining blood pressure medications with beets may lower blood pressure too much,” says Jordana Tobelem, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist.
How Much Of Beetroot Juice Is Too Much?
There is limited research and no official recommendation regarding the safe dosage of beetroot juice. Hence, it is best to consult with your doctor.
A Note On SuperBeets
SuperBeets is a popular health supplement that allegedly lowers blood pressure and improves circulation. It is made of beetroots that are dehydrated into crystals. There only is one study about SuperBeets, and concrete evidence on its efficacy to lower blood pressure is lacking. The supplement may lower blood pressure levels, but more research is warranted (11). Most testimonials from people state that the supplement can lower blood pressure levels. However, certain others reported no benefits. Exact information on SuperBeets is lacking. If you are vulnerable to the side effects of beetroot juice, the supplement could do more harm than good. Hence, it is imperative to discuss this with your doctor. Does beetroot thicken your blood? Check out the infographic below to discover the different ways you can follow to reduce the risk of kidney stones and what foods you should avoid. No. Jordana Tobelem, Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, says, “Beetroot does not thicken your blood. Beetroot works by increasing blood flow, improving blood circulation, and improving oxygen uptake. This, in turn, helps to lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance.” When should you drink beetroot juice? The best time to have beetroot juice is early in the morning or 30 minutes before breakfast. Is it OK to drink beet juice every day? Yes, you can consume a cup of beetroot juice every day. Is it good to drink beetroot juice on an empty stomach? Yes, consuming beetroot juice on an empty stomach helps in better absorption of its nutrients. Does beetroot juice increase weight? No, beetroot juice does not increase weight. It is very low in calories and helps in weight loss. Does beetroot juice cause gas? Yes, beetroot juice may cause gas and bloating in people with gastrointestinal issues. Hence, caution is advised while consuming it.
