Is there a downside to taking SuperBeets?
SuperBeets is a popular dietary supplement that contains beetroot powder and other ingredients like vitamin C and vitamin D. It is marketed to boost energy, support blood pressure and circulation, and enhance stamina. While many people take SuperBeets and praise its benefits, some wonder if there are any downsides to taking this supplement regularly.
How SuperBeets Works
The primary active ingredient in SuperBeets is beetroot powder. Beets are a great source of nitrates, which can be converted into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a molecule that helps blood vessels dilate and allows more oxygen and nutrients to be delivered throughout the body.
This dilation effect is thought to be behind the energy boosting and blood pressure regulating effects of beets and beet supplements. SuperBeets combines beetroot with other ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin D, and folic acid to provide an all-in-one supplement.
Potential Benefits of SuperBeets
Here are some of the touted benefits of taking SuperBeets regularly:
- Increased energy and stamina
- Improved circulation and blood pressure
- Better cardiovascular health
- Enhanced athletic performance
- Anti-inflammatory effects
These benefits are attributed to the high nitrate content coming from the beetroot powder. Some research studies have found supplementing with beetroot juice or powder can improve oxygen flow during exercise and lower blood pressure.
Is SuperBeets Safe?
For most healthy adults, SuperBeets is considered safe to consume when taken as directed. However, there are some potential side effects and downsides to consider:
Nitrate Content
While nitrates can increase nitric oxide in the body, getting too many nitrates can be risky. High nitrate levels can cause:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Nausea and indigestion
- Dangerously low blood pressure
- Tightness in the chest
Consuming large amounts of nitrates is especially risky for certain groups, like:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People with diabetes, low blood pressure, or circulation disorders
- People taking medications that dilate blood vessels
- Children under 18
One serving of SuperBeets contains about 80mg of dietary nitrate, which is within safe limits for most adults. However, taking more than the recommended serving could lead to excessive nitrate intake.
Beet Allergies
Beetroot can cause allergic reactions in some people. SuperBeets contains beetroot powder, so it could trigger an allergy. Symptoms may include:
- Itchy or tingly mouth
- Swelling of the lips, tongue and throat
- Skin reactions like hives, rashes or itching
- Digestive issues like vomiting, cramps or diarrhea
People with known allergies to beets, chard or other plants in the Amaranthaceae family should avoid SuperBeets.
Medication Interactions
The nitrates in SuperBeets can interact with some medications and supplements. Consult your doctor before taking SuperBeets if you take:
- Medications that dilate blood vessels
- Drugs for erectile dysfunction
- Blood pressure medications
- Blood thinners
SuperBeets may strengthen the effects of these medications and increase the risk of side effects.
Digestive Effects
Dietary nitrates from beets are rapidly absorbed and excreted through urine. This diuretic effect may cause:
- Increased bathroom visits
- Urgent need to urinate
- Red or pink urine
Beetroot can also have a laxative effect in some people. Additionally, the vitamins in SuperBeets may cause nausea, cramps or diarrhea if taken in excess.
SuperBeets Dosage and Safety
To avoid potential side effects, stick to the recommended SuperBeets dosage guidelines:
- 1 scoop (5g) per day, taken with a meal
- Do not exceed 2 scoops (10g) in 24 hours
- Take at least 2 hours before or after medications or supplements
- Do not take if pregnant, breastfeeding, under 18, or have a medical condition
SuperBeets is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult your doctor before taking it if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
The Bottom Line on SuperBeets
For most healthy adults, taking SuperBeets as directed is likely safe and may provide benefits related to energy, circulation and performance. However, exceeding the recommended dosage, having certain health conditions or taking medications can increase your risk of side effects.
Potential drawbacks of long-term use include:
- Digestive issues
- Dangerously low blood pressure
- Allergic reactions
- Headaches and dizziness
As with any supplement, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before adding something new to your routine. Overall, SuperBeets is likely fine for most people when used moderately and responsibly.
Conclusion
SuperBeets contains nitrates from beetroot powder, which may provide energy, performance, and cardiovascular benefits. However, exceeding the recommended dose, having certain health conditions, or taking medications can increase the risk of side effects.
Potential downsides of long-term use include digestive issues, dangerously low blood pressure, allergic reactions, and headaches/dizziness. Consulting a doctor is advised, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, under 18, or taking medications.
Overall, SuperBeets is likely safe for most healthy adults when used as directed, but excessive intake can be harmful. Moderate, responsible use is best to minimize any potential risks.
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