If you’re wondering what the “beets cause…” claim is getting at, beets are actually a nutritious food with some well-established effects.
What eating beets can do
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Temporarily turn urine or stool pink/red: This is called beeturia and is generally harmless. It can be surprising and sometimes mistaken for blood.
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Increase nitric-oxide availability: Beetroot contains nitrates, which the body can convert to nitric oxide. This can promote blood-vessel dilation and may produce a modest reduction in blood pressure in some people.
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Provide useful nutrients: Beets contain folate, potassium, fiber, and antioxidant compounds.
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Cause digestive symptoms in some people: Larger amounts may cause gas, bloating, or changes in bowel habits.
One thing to know
Beets are relatively high in oxalates. People who have a history of calcium-oxalate kidney stones may need to discuss their overall oxalate intake with a healthcare professional.
So there isn’t a hidden effect that everyone needs to fear. Red urine after eating beets can be completely benign, but if you haven’t eaten beets and notice blood-colored urine, that should be medically evaluated.
