Food and erections
Beetroot juice for erectile dysfunction: does it work?
Beetroot juice for erectile dysfunction has become popular because beetroot is one of the richest food sources of nitrates, which the body converts to nitric oxide, the same messenger that starts an erection.
In short: Beetroot juice raises nitric oxide levels and can lower blood pressure and improve blood flow, which in theory supports erections. Direct studies on beetroot and erectile dysfunction are limited, so it is wiser to use it as part of a heart-healthy diet rather than as a treatment. Around one glass a day is a common amount.
How beetroot works in the body
Beetroot contains dietary nitrates. Bacteria in your mouth turn these into nitrites, which the body then converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide relaxes and widens blood vessels. Studies show beetroot juice can lower blood pressure and improve blood flow during exercise, which is why athletes use it.
Is beetroot good for erectile dysfunction?
Because an erection depends on nitric oxide relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, beetroot is a logical food to include. However:
- There are few good human trials testing beetroot specifically for ED.
- The effect on erections is likely to be mild compared with medical treatment.
- It is most useful when poor circulation or high blood pressure is part of the picture.
How to take beetroot juice
- About 250 ml of beetroot juice a day is a common amount used in studies.
- Mix with apple, carrot, ginger or lemon to improve the taste.
- Roasted, boiled or grated raw beetroot also provides nitrates.
- Avoid antibacterial mouthwash straight after, as it reduces the mouth bacteria that convert nitrates.
Possible side effects
- Pink or red urine and stools are harmless but can be alarming.
- Beetroot is high in oxalates, so men with a history of kidney stones should be careful.
- Because it can lower blood pressure, check first if you take blood pressure medicine or ED medicine.
Other nitrate-rich foods
Rocket, spinach, celery, lettuce and morogo are also excellent sources. See our list of natural Viagra foods.
Making it count
Beetroot is most useful as part of a bigger plan: regular exercise, a healthy weight, no smoking and less alcohol. If erections remain weak, a naturopath can help identify the cause and recommend a personalised natural plan. Learn more about weak erections.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- How often can you get and keep an erection firm enough for sex: almost always, most of the time, sometimes, or rarely?
- Do you still notice morning or night-time erections?
- Have stress, poor sleep, alcohol, smoking or long hours increased recently?
- Do you take medicine for blood pressure, the heart, diabetes or mood?
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
If you answered “sometimes” or “rarely” to the first question, a consultation is a sensible next step. Morning erections that still happen are often a reassuring sign that lifestyle, stress or confidence are playing a part, which natural support can address well. A yes to question four means any remedy needs checking for interactions first.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our men’s clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Does beetroot juice help with erections?
Beetroot juice increases nitric oxide and blood flow, which supports erections in theory, but direct evidence for treating ED is limited.
How long does beetroot juice take to work?
Nitric oxide levels rise within a few hours of drinking beetroot juice, but any benefit to erections is more likely with regular use over weeks.
How much beetroot juice should I drink?
Around 250 ml a day is commonly used. Start with less if you are not used to it.
Who should not drink beetroot juice?
Men with kidney stones, low blood pressure or who take blood pressure or ED medicines should check first.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
- NIDDK: Symptoms and causes of erectile dysfunction
- Mayo Clinic: Erectile dysfunction, diagnosis and treatment
- NCCIH: Using dietary supplements wisely
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
