Beetroot juice has become a popular health trend, often known as a ‘superdrink’ for its many benefits. One of the most common beliefs is that it helps “detox” the liver and may even reverse fatty liver disease, a condition that’s becoming more common due to unhealthy lifestyles. Fatty liver disease occurs when extra fat builds up in the liver. It is often linked to poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity, diabetes, and alcohol use. In its early stages, fatty liver usually doesn’t cause any symptoms—but over time, it can lead to liver damage, scarring, or even failure.
Many people are now turning to natural remedies like beetroot juice to improve liver health. Beetroot is rich in nutrients such as nitrates, antioxidants, iron, folate, and vitamin C, all of which are believed to support the liver. But is beetroot juice really the miracle drink for fatty liver? We spoke to Dr. Sudeep Khanna, Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology, at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, who shares his insights on the same.
Why is fatty liver on the rise in India?
Fatty liver disease, especially the non-alcoholic kind (NAFLD), is rising rapidly in India and around the world. It develops silently and is often found by chance during health check-ups or scans.
“Fatty liver is becoming very common due to changes in diet and lifestyle,” says Dr. Khanna. “If left untreated, it can turn into more serious conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, or liver failure,” he adds.
Can beetroot juice help?
Beetroot is packed with nutrients that may benefit the liver. It contains antioxidants that fight cell damage, nitrates that improve blood flow, and iron and folate that support overall liver function.
“Some small studies suggest beetroot extract may help reduce liver enzyme levels, which is a sign of reduced liver stress,” says Dr. Khanna. “But it’s important to note that these studies mostly used concentrated extracts, not the juice we drink at home,” he warns.
While beetroot juice can be part of a healthy routine, Dr. Khanna warns against thinking of it as a magic cure.
Don’t fall for the detox myth
It’s a popular belief that beetroot juice can detox the liver, but that’s not how the liver works.
“The liver is a self-cleaning organ. It doesn’t need special drinks to ‘detox’ itself. What it really needs is less sugar, less fat, more physical activity, and a balanced diet,” explains Dr. Khanna.
Beetroot juice works best with lifestyle changes
Drinking beetroot juice is a good habit, but it won’t reverse fatty liver on its own. Healthy changes like eating more fruits and vegetables, avoiding alcohol, exercising regularly, and staying hydrated are key to improving liver health.
“Beetroot juice can support liver health, but it’s only one small part of a much bigger picture,” says Dr. Khanna. “It works best when combined with other healthy habits.”
Beetroot juice is a nutritious, liver-friendly drink that may offer some benefits. But it’s not a cure for fatty liver disease. As per Dr. Khanna, “Think of beetroot juice as a helper—not a healer.”
Enjoy it as part of a healthy lifestyle, and remember, true liver health comes from long-term choices, not quick fixes.
