Do beetroot and stress impact menstrual cycles?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have always had light periods. Sometimes I would skip a month, or my cycle would shorten to around 20 days. However, over the past two months, I have noticed a heavier flow along with some weight gain.

Last month, my cycle lasted for 10 days with a heavier flow than usual. Then, after a five-day break, I got my period again for two to three days, and after another five days, I started bleeding again for three days.

I think this change may be related to the fact that I have been drinking beetroot juice daily for the past three months. I was also under a lot of stress last month. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Thank you for sharing these detailed observations. It sounds like your menstrual cycle has recently changed quite a bit. Here is a breakdown of what may be happening, along with some suggestions:

1. Beetroot juice and menstrual flow

Beetroot is rich in iron, folate, and natural nitrates, which can improve blood circulation and potentially stimulate the endometrial lining. While there is no conclusive scientific evidence, some women do report heavier menstrual bleeding after starting beetroot juice. However, beetroot alone typically does not cause irregular bleeding patterns.

2. Stress

High levels of stress can:

Disrupt ovulation due to hormonal imbalances.
Causes shorter menstrual cycles, spotting, or multiple periods in one month.
Lead to weight gain through stress hormone (cortisol)–related changes.

3. Other possible causes

Based on your description, you may be experiencing hormonal fluctuations, which could be due to:

Perimenopause (this can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, depending on your age).
Thyroid dysfunction, especially hypothyroidism.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Endometrial or general hormonal imbalances, such as estrogen dominance.

4. Next steps

Here are some steps you can take:

Temporarily stop drinking beetroot juice for one month and observe any changes in your cycle.

Track your cycle carefully using an app or a calendar, including cycle length, flow, and any associated symptoms.
Consult your gynecologist and request the following evaluations:
Hormone panel: estrogen, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and cortisol.
Thyroid function tests: thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4).
Pelvic ultrasound to rule out uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts.

Consider a nutrition and lifestyle review. Weight gain may be tied to dietary changes, emotional or stress-related eating, or hormone-related water retention.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.