When you eat beets, you might notice a surprising reddish or even purplish change in your stool color. While this vivid hue might be startling, it is a common and usually harmless biological response to consuming the vibrant root vegetable. Understanding the underlying reasons for this color change can alleviate any apprehension and clarify why beets have this unique effect on your digestive output.
The Science Behind the Color
The distinct red or reddish-purple color of beets comes from natural pigments known as betalains, primarily betanin. When consumed, these betalain pigments travel through your digestive system. Unlike some other plant pigments, betalains are not always fully broken down or absorbed by the body during digestion.
A portion of these pigments can pass through the gastrointestinal tract largely intact. This means that as the food moves through the intestines, the undigested betanin retains its color and mixes with the forming stool. The degree to which this happens can vary among individuals, influenced by factors such as digestive transit time and the body’s specific metabolic processes. Studies suggest a significant amount can remain undigested.
Is It Normal?
Observing red or reddish-purple stool after eating beets is generally considered a normal physiological response for many people. This temporary effect typically lasts only a few hours to up to 48 hours.
Estimates suggest that around 10% to 14% of the population experiences this specific discoloration after consuming beets. The appearance of the color can be influenced by the quantity of beets eaten and variations in individual digestive efficiency. The primary reason for this visual change is the body’s varying ability to metabolize the betanin pigment. For some, the pigment simply passes through without extensive breakdown, resulting in the noticeable color.
When to Consult a Doctor
While beet-induced stool discoloration is usually harmless, it is important to distinguish it from other causes of red stool, which might indicate a medical concern. If your stool appears red or black and you have not consumed beets or other red-pigmented foods, it warrants attention. Blood in the stool can vary in appearance; bright red blood often suggests bleeding in the lower part of the digestive tract, while black or tarry stool can indicate bleeding higher up.
If the red color persists for more than 48 hours after eating beets, or if it appears without any recent beet consumption, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Other symptoms that should prompt medical evaluation include abdominal pain, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or if the stool is consistently tarry black. A doctor can perform tests to determine if the color is due to pigments or if it indicates the presence of blood, providing clarity and appropriate guidance.