Does beetroot raise hemoglobin?

November 21, 2025 •

2 min read

According to a 2021 study, beetroot juice significantly increased hemoglobin levels in anemic adolescent girls after just two weeks. This evidence confirms that beetroot does raise hemoglobin by supplying vital nutrients and enhancing blood health.

Quick Summary

Beetroot can help increase hemoglobin due to its rich content of iron, folate, and vitamin C, which are crucial for red blood cell production. Its nitrates also enhance blood flow. While a valuable dietary aid, it is not a replacement for medical treatment in severe anemia cases.

Key Points

Nutrient-Rich: Beetroot contains key nutrients like iron, folate (B9), and vitamin C, all vital for healthy red blood cell and hemoglobin production.
Enhanced Absorption: The vitamin C in beetroot significantly enhances the body's ability to absorb the non-heme iron it provides.
Improved Blood Flow: Dietary nitrates in beetroot convert to nitric oxide, which widens blood vessels and improves oxygen delivery, further supporting hemoglobin function.
Evidence-Based Support: Studies have shown that consistent beetroot juice consumption can lead to measurable increases in hemoglobin levels in anemic individuals over a period of weeks.
Dietary Aid, Not Cure: While beneficial for mild anemia, beetroot should be viewed as a supportive dietary measure and not a replacement for medical treatment for more severe cases.
Holistic Approach: For best results, combine beetroot consumption with a diet rich in other iron and folate sources and avoid foods that block iron absorption, such as coffee and tea.

How Beetroot Aids in Hemoglobin Production

Beetroot contains nutrients essential for blood health, making it a dietary option for boosting hemoglobin. Its efficacy stems from its iron, folate, vitamin C content, and nitrate compounds. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein carrying oxygen. Anemia is often caused by iron or folate deficiency. Beetroot provides non-heme iron and is rich in folate (Vitamin B9), vital for red blood cell synthesis. The vitamin C in beetroot helps the body absorb non-heme iron. Beetroot's dietary nitrates convert to nitric oxide, improving blood flow.

Scientific Evidence for Beetroot's Efficacy

Studies support beetroot for increasing hemoglobin. Research in 2021 showed anemic adolescent girls consuming beetroot juice had increased hemoglobin over two weeks. A 2023 study on anemic rats suggested beetroot extract was effective in increasing blood parameters compared to a standard iron supplement.

Beetroot vs. Iron Supplements

Beetroot provides a holistic approach to boosting hemoglobin compared to concentrated iron supplements. Consultation with a doctor is advised for severe anemia.


Feature	Beetroot (Dietary Source)	Iron Supplements (Pharmaceutical)
Nutrient Profile	Provides iron, folate, vitamin C, nitrates, and other vitamins/minerals.	Typically provides a single, high dose of iron.
Absorption	Contains Vitamin C, which enhances non-heme iron absorption naturally.	Iron absorption can be inconsistent and affected by other foods.
Mechanism	Stimulates red blood cell production (folate, iron) and improves oxygen transport (nitrates).	Directly increases the body's iron stores.
Side Effects	Mild, such as beeturia (pink urine) or potential kidney stones with excessive intake.	Can cause significant gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Anemia Severity	Most suitable for mild iron deficiency or as a preventative measure.	Necessary for moderate to severe cases of anemia.

Incorporating Beetroot into Your Diet

Beetroot can be added to your diet through juice, salads, roasting, smoothies, or pickling {Link: continentalhospitals.com https://continentalhospitals.com/blog/can-beetroot-help-treat-anemia-naturally/}.

A Balanced Approach for Optimal Hemoglobin

Beetroot is best used as part of a balanced diet with other iron-rich foods. For severe anemia, follow medical treatment. More information is available from sources like {Link: Healthline healthline.com}.

Conclusion

Beetroot can help raise hemoglobin levels due to its iron, folate, vitamin C, and nitrates, supporting red blood cell production, iron absorption, and oxygen transport. Integrate beetroot into a balanced diet and consult a healthcare professional for anemia diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The time it takes for beetroot to raise hemoglobin can vary, but studies have shown significant increases in as little as two weeks with regular consumption. For best results, consistency is key, along with a balanced diet.

No, beetroot cannot cure severe anemia alone. While it is an excellent dietary aid for mild cases or prevention, severe anemia requires medical treatment, potentially including iron supplements, under a doctor's supervision.

Both forms are beneficial. Beetroot juice may offer a more concentrated dose, while whole beetroot provides more dietary fiber. Most studies on blood health focus on beetroot juice, but including the whole vegetable in your diet is also very effective.

Beeturia is a harmless, temporary condition where urine or stool appears reddish-pink after consuming beetroot. It is not a cause for concern and is simply due to the pigmentation in the vegetable.

Most people can consume beetroot safely. However, excessive amounts can increase oxalate levels, potentially leading to kidney stones in predisposed individuals. Also, its blood pressure-lowering effect means those with low blood pressure should consume it cautiously.

Pairing beetroot with foods rich in vitamin C, like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, enhances iron absorption. You can also combine it with other folate and iron-rich foods such as leafy greens, legumes, and lean meats.

Folate is a B-vitamin crucial for the production of red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to a specific type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia. The folate in beetroot helps prevent this by supporting healthy red blood cell synthesis.