Beetroot extract has gained popularity as a dietary supplement, primarily for its cardiovascular benefits through nitrate-to-nitric-oxide conversion. Some manufacturers have suggested it may support male sexual health by improving blood flow. However, it is crucial to understand that no scientific evidence supports the use of beetroot extract—at any dosage—for penis growth or size enhancement. Penis dimensions are determined by genetics and puberty-related development, and no supplement can alter these anatomical characteristics in adults. This article examines the evidence surrounding beetroot extract, clarifies misconceptions about penis enlargement supplements, and outlines evidence-based approaches to male sexual health in line with NHS and NICE guidance.

Understanding Beetroot Extract and Its Claimed Benefits

Beetroot extract has gained attention in recent years as a dietary supplement, primarily due to its high nitrate content. When consumed, dietary nitrates are converted in the body to nitric oxide, a molecule that plays a crucial role in vasodilation—the widening of blood vessels. This mechanism has led to beetroot extract being marketed for various health benefits, including improved athletic performance, blood pressure reduction, and enhanced cardiovascular function.

In the context of male sexual health, some supplement manufacturers have suggested that beetroot extract may support erectile function through its effects on blood flow. The logic follows that improved circulation could theoretically benefit erectile tissue, which relies on adequate blood supply for normal function. However, it is essential to distinguish between claims about erectile function and claims about penis growth or size enhancement.

There is no official link or credible scientific evidence connecting beetroot extract consumption—at any dosage—to permanent changes in penis size or growth. Penis size is determined by genetics and developmental factors during puberty, and no dietary supplement, including beetroot extract, has been proven to alter these anatomical dimensions in adults. Whilst beetroot extract may offer some cardiovascular benefits when used appropriately, claims regarding penis enlargement should be viewed with considerable scepticism.

It's important to note that the nitrate content of beetroot supplements varies widely between products, and milligrams of extract do not equate to standardised nitrate doses. In the UK, most beetroot supplements are regulated as foods (under Food Standards Agency oversight) rather than medicines. Those with certain health conditions should exercise caution—beetroot's blood pressure-lowering effects may interact with antihypertensive medications, and its high oxalate content may be problematic for people with kidney stone history.

Scientific Evidence on Beetroot Extract and Male Sexual Health

The scientific literature on beetroot extract focuses predominantly on its cardiovascular effects rather than sexual health outcomes. Research has demonstrated that beetroot juice and extract, rich in inorganic nitrates, can modestly reduce blood pressure and improve endothelial function—the health of blood vessel linings. These effects occur through the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway, which promotes vasodilation and improved blood flow throughout the body.

Regarding male sexual health specifically, the evidence base is extremely limited. Erectile function depends on adequate blood flow to the penile tissues, and theoretically, substances that enhance nitric oxide availability might support this process. Some small studies have explored dietary nitrates in the context of erectile dysfunction, but results have been inconclusive and the research quality has generally been poor. There is no robust evidence from randomised controlled trials establishing beetroot extract as an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, and certainly none have examined effects on penis size.

The NHS and NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS) on erectile dysfunction make no mention of beetroot extract or dietary nitrates as recommended interventions. The British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) similarly does not include beetroot extract in any clinical guidance for erectile dysfunction or other male sexual health conditions. Current evidence suggests that whilst beetroot extract may offer general cardiovascular benefits, there is no scientific basis for recommending specific dosages for sexual health purposes.

Patients should be aware that erectile function is complex, involving psychological, neurological, hormonal, and vascular factors. Addressing underlying health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease—often in consultation with a GP—represents a far more evidence-based approach than relying on unproven supplements.

What the Research Says About Penis Size and Supplements

It is important to address a fundamental biological fact: no dietary supplement, herbal remedy, or over-the-counter product has been scientifically proven to increase penis size in adults. Penis dimensions are established during puberty under the influence of androgens (male hormones) and genetic factors. Once skeletal and sexual maturity is reached, typically by the late teens or early twenties, further growth does not occur through nutritional or supplemental interventions.

The supplement industry frequently markets products with implied or explicit claims about male enhancement, often using vague terminology such as "supports male vitality" or "promotes blood flow." These marketing strategies exploit common insecurities but lack scientific substantiation. Multiple systematic reviews examining various supplements marketed for male sexual enhancement have found no credible evidence supporting claims of anatomical enlargement.

Beetroot extract falls into this category of unproven interventions when it comes to penis growth. Whilst the nitric oxide pathway may theoretically support erectile rigidity during arousal—which could create a temporary perception of increased size—this is fundamentally different from actual tissue growth or permanent dimensional changes. Any perceived benefits would be transient and related to improved blood engorgement rather than structural changes.

The NHS does not recommend or endorse any supplements for penis enlargement, and provides reassurance about normal anatomical variation on its website. Men concerned about penis size should be aware that perceived inadequacy is often not supported by objective measurements, and psychological factors frequently play a significant role. Counselling or psychosexual therapy may be more appropriate than pursuing unproven supplements, particularly when concerns about size are affecting quality of life or relationships.

Safe and Evidence-Based Approaches to Sexual Health

For men genuinely concerned about sexual function rather than size, several evidence-based approaches exist. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common and increases with age, affecting many men in the UK. NICE guidelines recommend a stepwise approach to management, beginning with lifestyle modifications and addressing underlying health conditions.

Key evidence-based interventions include:

• Lifestyle modifications: Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and stopping smoking all improve cardiovascular health and erectile function

• Managing chronic conditions: Optimising control of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidaemia significantly impacts sexual health

• Medication review: Some prescribed medications (including certain antihypertensives and antidepressants) can affect erectile function; your GP may suggest alternatives

• Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors: Medications such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil and avanafil (Spedra) are first-line pharmacological treatments for ED, with robust evidence supporting their efficacy. These medications are contraindicated with nitrates and riociguat, and should be used with caution alongside alpha-blockers

• Psychological support: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or psychosexual counselling can address performance anxiety, relationship issues, or underlying mental health concerns

Regarding cardiovascular health more broadly, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—which naturally includes nitrate-containing foods like beetroot—supports overall wellbeing. However, this is quite different from taking concentrated supplements with specific claims about sexual function.

If considering any supplement, patients should discuss this with their GP or pharmacist, particularly if taking other medications. Supplements can interact with prescribed medicines, and quality varies considerably between manufacturers. If you experience suspected side effects from any medicine, vaccine, herbal or complementary remedy, report them to the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme (yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk). For misleading supplement advertising claims, reports can be made to the Advertising Standards Authority or Trading Standards.

When to Speak with Your GP About Sexual Health Concerns

Many men feel embarrassed discussing sexual health concerns, but GPs are accustomed to these conversations and can provide confidential, non-judgemental support. You should consider booking an appointment if you experience:

• Persistent erectile difficulties: Inability to achieve or maintain erections on most occasions over a period of several weeks or months

• Reduced libido: Significant decrease in sexual desire that is distressing or affecting your relationship

• Premature or delayed ejaculation: Ejaculatory concerns that cause distress or relationship difficulties

• Anxiety about penis size: Persistent preoccupation with genital appearance that affects self-esteem, relationships, or daily functioning

• Physical changes: Pain during erection, curvature of the penis (which may indicate Peyronie's disease), or changes in testicular size or consistency

Seek urgent medical attention for:

• Erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism)

• Sudden penile pain or 'popping' sensation during intercourse (possible penile fracture)

• Chest pain or shortness of breath during sexual activity

• Rapidly progressive painful penile curvature

Your GP will typically take a medical history, including questions about cardiovascular risk factors, medications, psychological wellbeing, and relationship factors. They may perform a physical examination and arrange blood tests to check hormone levels (particularly morning total testosterone, which may need confirmation if low), glucose/HbA1c, and lipid profiles. This assessment helps identify any underlying medical conditions requiring treatment.

Erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease, as the smaller blood vessels supplying the penis may show signs of atherosclerosis before larger vessels are affected. Therefore, ED should never be dismissed as simply an inevitable part of ageing or a purely psychological issue.

For concerns specifically about penis size, your GP can provide reassurance about normal anatomical variation and, if appropriate, refer you to a urologist (for structural issues like Peyronie's disease), endocrinologist (for hormonal concerns), or psychosexual medicine specialist. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) can sometimes manifest as preoccupation with genital appearance, and this condition responds well to psychological therapies, with NHS resources available for support.

Remember that reputable healthcare professionals will not recommend unproven supplements or procedures for penis enlargement. If you encounter practitioners making such claims, this should raise concerns about their credibility and adherence to evidence-based practice.

Frequently Asked Questions