Here is what a GI doctor says about how long beet juice in one’s stools can last.
Beet juice in the stools, to some, is “cool,” but to others, is very frightening, as this can masquerade as blood in the stools.
In medicine, “beeturia” refers to the unabsorbed crimson pigment of this vegetable, called betanin, in a person’s urine, not their bowel movements.
If you’re seeing red in your stools three or four days after eating whole beets or beet juice, it might be tempting to start thinking that this is blood.
I myself have had it five days out.
“In the stool it’s also generally two days, but maybe three or four,” says Jonathan Zinberg, MD, chief of gastroenterology at South Nassau Communities Hospital, Oceanside, NY.
“It is more likely to occur in those who have increased iron absorption, such as those with iron deficiency.
“But remember, not all biologic specimens (i.e., people) follow the rules, so there can be variability.”
Jonathan Zinberg, MD
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
