1. Red or Pink Urine/Stool (Beeturia)
- Harmless! Caused by betalain pigments. Affects ~10–14% of people, especially those with low stomach acid or iron deficiency.
- Not a sign of blood—just vivid natural dye.
2. Kidney Stones (For At-Risk Individuals)
- Beets contain oxalates, which can contribute to calcium-oxalate stones in susceptible people.
- Only a concern if you’ve had oxalate stones before.
- Solution: Stay well-hydrated; pair with calcium-rich foods (calcium binds oxalates in the gut).
3. Blood Pressure Drops (If You’re on Medication)
- Beets naturally lower BP. If you take antihypertensive meds, monitor levels—your dose may need adjustment.
- Not dangerous, but worth discussing with your doctor.
4. Digestive Sensitivity
- High fiber + FODMAPs may cause gas or bloating in people with IBS.
- Solution: Start with small portions (¼ cup cooked).
❌ Myths Debunked
- “Beets cause anemia” → False! They’re rich in folate and support red blood cell health.
- “Beet juice is toxic” → No. It’s widely used by athletes and studied for cardiovascular benefits.
- “Beets spike blood sugar” → Unlikely. They have a low glycemic load (GL = 5 per ½ cup).
❤️ The Bottom Line
For most people, beets are incredibly healthy—not harmful.
The idea that “doctors warn against beets” is almost always misinformation, clickbait, or taken out of context. Unless you have a specific medical condition (like recurrent kidney stones), there’s no reason to avoid them.
In fact, adding beets to your diet may support your heart, brain, and energy levels.
“Eat your beets. Your future self will thank you.” 🌱✨
If you’re concerned about a specific health issue, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian—they’ll give you personalized advice, not fear-based headlines.