Some evidence suggests that dietary nitrates may improve how efficiently muscles use oxygen during certain types of exercise. This has made beetroot juice popular among some endurance athletes.
However, benefits appear to depend on factors such as:
Fitness level
Exercise intensity
Amount consumed
Timing before exercise
Drinking beet juice will not automatically improve athletic performance or replace consistent training, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and recovery.
A Surprising Color Change
One of the most noticeable effects of eating beets is a temporary change in the color of urine or stool.
The pigments responsible for beets’ vibrant color are called betalains. In some people, these pigments pass through the digestive system and can temporarily turn urine pink or red, a harmless effect often referred to as beeturia.
Stool may also appear reddish or dark purple for a short time after eating large amounts of beets.
These changes usually disappear once the pigments leave the body.
