Eating vegetables is good for your health. But overusing it can sometimes have unexpected consequences. In the United States, an 82-year-old man almost died after consuming huge quantities of beets over several weeks. His particularly rare case was reported in the scientific journal “The Journal of Emergency Medicine” and relayed by the German media “Die Welt”.
The retiree had gotten into the habit of eating up to 2.7 kilos of cooked beets per week, without forgetting to drink their cooking juice. A dietary change which ended up playing a very bad role on him.
One day, the octogenarian felt unwell and was taken to the emergency room. His complexion had turned gray and his blood pressure had dropped dangerously. Despite the administration of oxygen, his condition did not improve.
A dangerous mixture with medicines
Doctors eventually discovered he had methemoglobinemia, a rare condition that prevents blood from properly carrying oxygen to organs.
The reason? A buildup of nitrates from beets, combined with a medication the patient was taking to treat severe coronary artery disease. This association had disrupted the functioning of his hemoglobin, to the point of causing a lack of oxygen in the tissues.
Fortunately, doctors quickly identified the problem. An injection of methylene blue, a specific antidote, restored his condition. The man was then able to leave the hospital after adjusting his diet.
The study authors believe this may be the first known case in an adult linked to excessive consumption of whole beets. However, this story does not mean that you should ban this vegetable from your plate. Above all, it illustrates the risks of extreme consumption associated with certain medical treatments.
