Short answer
Beets contain a red pigment, betalain, that some people do not fully break down. It can color stool and urine red or pink within a day of eating them, and it clears within a day or two. If you did not eat beets, or the red color continues or returns, treat it as possible blood and get advice.
Why do beets turn poop red?
Beets can turn poop red because some people do not fully break down their red pigment, betalain. In some people it survives digestion and colors stool, and it can also turn urine pink or red, which is called beeturia. Not everyone is affected. It is more likely with large portions, juice, or if stool moves through quickly.
How long does red poop last after eating beets?
Red stool from beets usually shows up within about 24 hours of eating them and clears within a day or two. If it lasts longer, look for another cause.
Beets or blood?
| Beets | Blood | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | After eating beets, clears in a day or two | No link to food, or it repeats |
| Look | Pink or red tint through the stool | Streaks, clots, bright red on the paper |
| Other signs | Urine may be pink | Pain, dizziness, tiredness |
Other red foods include tomato products, red gelatin and fruit punch. See red stool and blood in stool.
When should you see a doctor about red stool after beets?
See a doctor if red stool lasts more than two days after eating beets, or if you have red stool without having eaten beets.
Usually harmless
- You ate beets and stool is red or pink, then clears within two days
Call a doctor within a day
- Red stool that lasts more than two days after beets
- Red stool when you have not eaten beets
Get care now
- A lot of blood, clots, dizziness or fainting
- Black, tarry stool
Warning signs to know
These are signs that published medical guidance says need prompt or urgent care. The list is not complete, and ticking boxes cannot tell you whether you are ill. If you are worried, contact a clinician whatever you tick.
Questions people ask
Do beets make your poop red?
They can. The red pigment passes through some people's gut and tints stool red or pink.
How long does red poop last after eating beets?
Usually a day or two.
Are beets the reason my urine is pink?
Possibly. Beeturia can turn urine pink or red. If urine stays red with no beets, see a doctor.
How do I know it is beets and not blood?
If you ate beets and it clears within two days, beets are a likely cause. If you did not, if it repeats, or if you are unsure, get checked.
Sources
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