Beets are often praised as a “superfood,” rich in antioxidants, nitrates, fiber, and essential vitamins. They support heart health, digestion, blood flow, and even athletic performance. But while beets offer impressive benefits, doctors warn that not everyone should consume them freely. For certain individuals, beets may cause more harm than good.
Below are the three groups doctors say should limit or completely avoid beet consumption—and the reasons why.
1. People With Kidney Stones or High Oxalate Levels
Beets are naturally high in oxalates, compounds that bind with calcium in the kidneys. For most people, this isn’t an issue. However, for individuals who are prone to kidney stones—especially calcium oxalate stones, the most common type—eating beets can significantly increase the risk of stone formation.
Why doctors wa:rn this group:
Oxalates from beets can crystallize in the kidneys.
This increases the chance of painful stones requiring medical intervention.
People who already have stones or a family history are especially at risk.
What to do instead:
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