Red or pink urine after eating beetroot? Understanding beeturia, its causes, symptoms and when to seek medical advice

Many people are startled to notice their urine turning red or pink after eating beetroot. This harmless change, known as beeturia, occurs when the body fails to break down betanin, the natural pigment in beets fully. While beeturia is usually nothing to worry about, it can occasionally signal underlying issues such as iron deficiency or low stomach acid, both of which affect how pigments are absorbed and processed. Recognising the symptoms, understanding the possible causes, and knowing when to seek medical advice can help you determine whether the colour change is simply a dietary effect or a sign of something more. Proper diagnosis ensures peace of mind and helps rule out more serious conditions like blood in the urine. Beeturia is a condition in which urine changes colour to red or