FitSugar

Why Does Asparagus Affect Your Urine?

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 03:00:00 -0800

This Valentine's Day, maybe some of you are saving money by cooking a romantic dinner at home. If you're trying to get the love flowing between you and your partner, maybe you're considering steaming some asparagus since it's considered an aphrodisiac. While its phallic shape is said to “stir up lust in man and woman,” it can also stir up some interesting issues with your body. Forty to 50 percent of asparagus eaters experience an odd side effect after eating this green veggie - smelly urine. Don't stop eating asparagus though if this happens to you, because the effect is completely harmless. Plus you'd be missing out on a really nutritious veggie that's packed with vitamins A, C, K, and folate.

If you're curious to know why this happens, read more.

This odiferous phenomenon happens during digestion. There's a sulfur compound in this veggie known as mercaptan, which is also found in rotten eggs, onions, garlic, and the secretions of skunks. After eating asparagus, your body breaks down the veggie, and the compound gets released, causing the odor you smell when you use the bathroom. As I've said before, it's nothing to worry about, so this Valentine's Day, don't let this little issue prevent you from sharing a few spears with your lover.

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What's the Deal With That Asparagus Aroma?

FitSugar — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 08:00:00 -0700

I love asparagus, and it's incredibly good for you - full of vitamin K, plus A and C and folate. But if you've ever eaten a lot of it, you might have noticed a rather odd side effect. There's really no delicate way to say this, so I'll just come right out with it: Eating asparagus can make your pee smell funny.

It doesn't happen to everyone, but if it happens to you, don't worry: The effect is totally harmless. The odor is merely a byproduct of digesting the veggie. According to WebMD, a compound called mercaptan, present in the green stalks, causes the ammonia- or sulfur-like smell to be released.

It is estimated that 40 to 50 percent of people experience this effect from asparagus; it's all a matter of genetics. If you've never noticed it, you may be immune, or you may simply be unable to smell it. The odor could appear the next day or in a matter of minutes. But aside from the obvious unpleasantness, the aroma of asparagus is nothing to be concerned about. Now aren't you glad we had this little chat?

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You Asked: How Many Times Should I Pee Each Day?

FitSugar — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:30:00 -0700

You're asking and I'm answering . . .

Dear FitSugar,

I know I'm supposed to stay hydrated and drink at least eight, eight-ounce glasses of water a day, but if I do, I end up peeing at least once every hour or more. Is this normal? How many times should I be going to the bathroom?

- Powder Room Patty

Yup, totally normal - I also go to the restroom a lot during the day. There is no real set number of times that you should be running to the loo, because it totally depends on your fluid intake. You drink water to replenish the water that gets lost through perspiration, excretion, and other bodily functions, and you don't necessarily need to be downing eight glasses of water each day. The amount depends on your lifestyle, whether you exercise a lot, or if you live in a warm climate. Check out Fit's Calculator to figure out how much water you should be drinking each day.

There's another way to find out if you're getting enough water. To find out what it is just read more.

You can also figure out if you're getting enough water by checking the color of your urine. It should be clear or close to it. If it is, then you're doing a great job of keeping yourself hydrated. If it's closer to neon yellow, then add a glass or two of water to your diet. If your pee is clear and you're running to the lady's room more often than you'd like (which it sounds like you are), then cut back on your water consumption by a cup or two.

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My Pee is Red!!!

FitSugar — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 03:30:00 -0800

Relax - Don't call 911 just yet. Think back. Have you eaten beets recently? Well, that'll do it.

When some people eat beets, it turns their pee and poop red. Only 14% of the population experience this.
Beeturia is the real name for this phenomenon, and it may be genetic. Eating beets while eating a lot of other oxalic acid containing foods such as spinach, rhubarb, or chocolate has been said to cause the red urine as well.

The majority of the time however, red pee after eating beets is a sign that your body needs a little more iron in your diet.

Fit's Tips: Other signs of an iron deficiency are heart palpitations, pale gums, and feeling tired all of the time. You can go to your doctor and get a simple test to find out for sure. Once you start adding more iron back into your diet, you'll be feeling more energetic. And when you eat beets again, you won't be scared by what you see after going to the bathroom.

DrSugar Answers: Smelly Urine?

DrSugar — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 12:00:00 -0800

DrSugar is in the house and he's answering your health questions.

Dear DrSugar,
This is a little embarrassing and a little weird, but my pee doesn't smell like normal these days. It has smelled off for about a week. It smells bad and it doesn’t seem to matter what I eat. Trust me, I haven't eaten any asparagus in months. Maybe you know what causes this and am wondering if it is serious. I can't for the life of me figure it out! Any information would be helpful
-Distressed in the Loo

To see if DrSugar feels this is a symptom of something serious, read more

Smelly urine can be related to certain foods or medications, but it can also be a sign of certain diseases. The most common cause of foul smelling urine is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Sometimes the odorous urine precedes other common symptoms of a UTI such as: burning with urination, frequent urination, lower abdominal pain, and fevers. If the foul smell persists, a urinary tract infection can be easily diagnosed with a urinalysis test at your doctor’s office. A previous FitSugar post outlines some easy ways to prevent urinary tract infections, including drinking cranberry juice, wiping properly, and voiding your bladder after sex.

Other diseases can cause urine to smell abnormal. For example, sweet smelling urine can be a sign of diabetes. Other signs of diabetes include: increased frequency of urination, increased thirst, and fatigue. Severe dehydration and low carb diets are associated with an ammonia like scent in urine. Asparagus is by far the most common food-related cause of abnormal smelling urine, but you haven't been eating that so it cannot be the culprit. Other foods have been associated with abnormal urine odor, but nothing as consistent as asparagus. If the smell does not resolve soon, it would be a good idea to see your doctor for a urinalysis test, which can detect both diabetes and a urinary tract infection. Good luck.

Have a question for DrSugar? Send it by private messaging me here, and I will forward it to the good doctor.

DrSugar's posts are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Click here for more details.

You Asked: Too Many Trips to the Ladies Room?

FitSugar — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 10:00:20 -0700

Dear Fit,
I drink tons of water, and probably go through four 32-ounce Nalgene bottles within the eight hours I am at the office, so I assume that's the reason. I'm wondering if this is bad for me? I go to the "ladies" at least once an hour to pee, and the guys in my office think it's way too often.
- Fearful of Over Watering

Women have smaller bladders than men, so that's why we tend to visit the ladies room more often. Is it possible to have to go too often? To find out keep reading

Alprostadil (Inside the urethra (Urine tube))

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:55:40 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Alprostadil (al-PROS-ta-dil)

Treats impotence (problems having sex) by helping you have an erection.

Brand Name(s)

Muse

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to alprostadil or if you have an abnormally formed penis. If you have certain medical problems such as sickle cell anemia, leukemia, or bone marrow tumors then you should not use this medicine. These conditions can increase the risk of having an unwanted erection that can last over 6 hours, which can be dangerous. If your doctor has told you not to have sex, then you should not use this medicine.

How to Use This Medicine

Suppository

Your doctor will tell you how to use the medicine. An information booklet, video tape, and pamphlet are also available to teach you how to use the medicine. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.
You will use an applicator to put a small pellet of medicine (suppository) into your urethra. The urethra is the tube in your penis that urine and semen move through.
The medicine should be kept in the refrigerator. Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you use it, and let it warm to room temperature.
Urinate right before you are ready to use the medicine. Gently shake excess urine from the penis. Moisture makes it easier to put the medicine in your penis and will help dissolve the medicine.
Tear open the foil pouch and slide the applicator out of the pouch. Twist the body of the applicator and pull the applicator from the cap. Save the pouch and cap to use when you throw the applicator away.
Make sure you can see the suppository in the applicator. Then, stretch the penis to its full length, and gently press the glans until the urethra opens.
Keep the penis stretched, and insert the applicator into the urethra up to the applicator's collar. Push down on the button on the top of the applicator.
Hold the button down and keep the applicator in your urethra for 5 seconds. Very gently move the applicator from side-to-side so the suppository does not stick to the applicator tip.
Keep the penis upright and take the applicator out. Make sure the suppository is in your urethra and not stuck to the applicator.
Roll your penis between your hands for 10 seconds. If you have a burning feeling, roll your penis for about a minute or until the burning lessens.
Sit, stand, or walk for about 10 minutes after you have put in the suppository. This will improve blood circulation, so you have a better erection. Do not lie down right after inserting the medicine.

If a dose is missed:

This medicine is used when you want to have an erection. You should not use the medicine more than 2 times each day.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Put the cap back on the applicator, and use the foil pouch to throw the applicator away. You can only use each applicator once.
Store unopened foil pouches in the refrigerator. If you keep the pouch at room temperature, the medicine is good for 14 days. Keep the medicine away from heat. The medicine may not work if exposed to temperatures above 86 degrees F.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a blood thinner such as Coumadin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Tell your doctor if you have a history of dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, or heart problems.
You should have an erection about 5 to 10 minutes after using the medicine. The erection should last about an hour. Erections that last more than 4 hours can be dangerous and cause permanent damage. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you still have an erection after 4 hours.
This medicine should not be given to women, children, or babies. If your partner is pregnant, you must use a condom when having sex.
Before you and your partner start having sex again, your partner may want to talk with her doctor.
This medicine will not keep your partner from getting pregnant. It will not protect you or your partner from diseases such as syphilis, herpes, or HIV. Use a latex condom for protection. Make sure you understand and practice safe sex.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Erection that lasts longer than 4 hours
Fainting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Aching in your penis, testicles, legs, or groin
Warmth or burning feeling in your penis
Minor bleeding from your urethra
Reddened penis
Dizziness

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_0805

Urine chemistry

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:44:01 -0700

Illustrations

Urine test

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Urine chemistry refers to a group of tests performed on a urine sample.

Alternative Names

Chemistry - urine

How the test is performed

For this test, a clean-catch (midstream) urine sample is needed. For more information, see: Urine collection - clean catch.

Your doctor will order certain tests, which will be done on the urine sample in a laboratory.

How to prepare for the test

For detailed information about how to prepare for the test, how the test will feel, risks with the test, and normal and abnormal values, please see the test your health care provider ordered:

Normal Values

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

Review Date: 8/14/2007

Reviewed By: Charles Silberberg, DO, Private Practice specializing in Nephrology, Affiliated with NY Medical College, Division of Nephrology, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_003342

Urine - bloody

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:06:05 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
Considerations
Common Causes
Call your health care provider if
What to expect at your health care provider's office
References

Illustrations

Female urinary tract

Male urinary tract

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Blood in your urine, or hematuria, can be classified as microscopic or gross.

Microscopic hematuria is when there is very little blood in the urine and it can only be seen with a microscope.
Gross hematuria is when there is enough blood in the urine that you can see it with the naked eye. Uusually it turns toilet water pale pink or bright red, or you may just see spots of blood in the water after urinating.

Alternative Names

Hematuria; Blood in the urine

Considerations

In women, blood may appear to be in the urine when it is actually coming from the vagina. In men, what may be mistaken for urinary bleeding is sometimes a bloody ejaculation, usually due to a prostate problem.

Discoloration from certain drugs, beets, or other foods can mimic blood in the urine.

You may not see blood in your urine. In some cases, it is found microscopically when your doctor checks your urine during a routine exam. Your doctor will follow up on this problem to see if it persists and identify the cause.

When blood is visible to the naked eye, prompt and thorough evaluation is always needed. In children, hospitalization is often necessary to complete the work up.

Common Causes

There are many potential causes of blood in the urine. Often, bloody urine is from a problem in your kidneys or other parts of the urinary tract. If your kidneys, urinary tract, prostate, and genitals turn out to be fine, your doctor may check to see if you have a bleeding disorder.

Kidney and urinary tract causes include:

Cancer of the bladder or kidney
Fractured pelvis
Kidney or bladder stones
Kidney disease following strep throat ( post-stretococcal glomerulonephritis) -- a classic cause of blood in the urine in children
Kidney failure
Infection of the bladder, kidney, or urethra
Inflammation of the bladder, urethra, or kidney ( glomerulonephritis)
Injury to the kidney
Polycystic kidney disease
Recent urinary tract procedure such as catheterization, circumcision, surgery, or kidney biopsy

Causes from blood disorders include:

Bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia)
Blood clot in the kidneys
Low numbers of platelets
Medications including blood thinners (such as warfarin)
Sickle cell disease

Call your health care provider if

Blood in the urine should never be ignored. Tell your doctor about this symptom and get an appropriate evaluation, especially if you have unexplained weight loss, burning with urination, frequent urination, or urgent urination.

Call your doctor right away if:

You have fever, nausea, vomiting, shaking chills, or pain in your abdomen, side, or back
You are unable to urinate
You are passing blood clots

Also call your doctor if:

You have pain with sexual intercourse or heavy menstrual bleeding -- the problem may be related to your reproductive organs
You have urine dribbling, nighttime urination, or difficulty starting your urinary flow -- the problem may be related to your prostate

What to expect at your health care provider's office

Your doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical examination. Medical history questions may include:

When did you first notice blood in your urine?
What is the underlying color of your urine?
Do you have any pain with urination?
Has the quantity of your urine increased or decreased?
Does your urine have an odor?
Are you urinating more frequently?
Do you have an urgent need to urinate?
What medications are you taking, including over the counter drugs?
Have you recently eaten foods that may cause discoloration, like beets, berries, or rhubarb?
Do you have any other symptoms like pain in your back, abdomen, or side? Fever, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea? Nighttime urination? Dribbling? Discharge from penis or vagina? Pain with intercourse?
Have you had previous urinary problems or kidney problems?
Do you have any allergies?
Have you had a recent injury?
Have you had any recent diagnostic or surgical procedures involving the urinary tract?

Tests that may be done include:

Abdominal ultrasound
Blood studies such as a CBC, blood differential, C3, and creatinine
CT scan of the abdomen
Cystoscopy
IVP
Kidney biopsy
Kidney x-rays
Strep test
Tests for lupus
Tests for sickle cell, bleeding problems, and other blood disorders
Urinalysis
Urine culture
24-hour urine collection for creatinine, protein, calcium

The treatment will depend on the cause of the blood in the urine. If a urinary tract infection is confirmed, antibiotics may be prescribed. If appropriate, pain medications will be given.

References

Choyke PL, Bluth EI, Bush WH Jr, et al. Expert Panel on Urologic Imaging. Hematuria. [online publication]. Reston, Va: American College of Radiology (ACR); 2005.

Campbell MF, Walsh PC, Retik AB, eds. Campbell’s Urology. 8th ed. WB Saunders; Philadelphia, Pa; 2002.

Yun EJ. Evaluation of the patient with hematuria. Med Clin North Am. 2004; 88(2): 329-343.

Review Date: 7/23/2007

Reviewed By: Marc Greenstein, DO, Urologist, North Jersey Center for Urologic Care, Denville, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_003138

Urine pH

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:12:34 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
How the test is performed
How to prepare for the test
How the test will feel
Why the test is performed
Normal Values
What abnormal results mean
What the risks are
Special considerations

Illustrations

Female urinary tract

Male urinary tract

PH urine test

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

A urine pH test measures the acidity of urine.

Alternative Names

pH - urine

How the test is performed

To obtain a clean-catch urine sample, boys and men should wipe the head of the penis clean. Girls and women need to wipe between the vaginal "lips" (labia) with soapy water and rinse well. Your doctor may give you a special clean-catch kit that contains a cleansing solution and sterile wipes.

To perform this test, first urinate a small amount into the toilet bowl to clear the urethra of any contaminants. Then, collect a sample of urine in a clean or sterile container. About 1 - 2 ounces of urine is needed for a test. Remove the container from the urine stream without stopping the flow. You may finish urinating into the toilet bowl. Take the sample to the lab.

For infants, the genital area is cleaned and dried, and then a collection device is attached to collect the urine. If you are asked to collect the urine, be sure the collection device is attached securely to prevent leakage. After your baby has urinated, the urine (at least 20 cc) is placed in a sterile container.

How to prepare for the test

Your health care provider may tell you to stop taking certain drugs that can affect the results of the test.

Drugs that increase urine pH include acetazolamide, potassium citrate, and sodium bicarbonate.
Drugs that can decrease urine pH include ammonium chloride, chlorothiazide diuretics, and methenamine mandelate.

Eat a normal, balanced diet for several days before the test.

A diet high in citrus fruits, vegetables, or dairy products can increase your urine pH.
A diet high in meat products or cranberries can decrease your urine pH.

How the test will feel

The test involves only normal urination, and there is no discomfort.

Why the test is performed

This test measures how acidic your urine is.

Your provider may want to test your urine pH to see if you are at risk for kidney stones. Acidic urine is associated with xanthine, cystine, uric acid, and calcium oxalate stones. Alkaline urine is associated with calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, and magnesium phosphate stones.

Your doctor may also order this test if you need to take certain medications. Some medications are more effective in acidic or alkaline environments. For example, streptomycin, neomycin, and kanamycin are more effective in treating urinary tract infections when the urine is alkaline.

Normal Values

The normal values range from 4.6 to 8.0.

Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What abnormal results mean

A high urine pH may be due to:

A low urine pH may be due to:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (such as emphysema)
Diabetic ketoacidosis
Diarrhea
Starvation

The test also may be performed to investigate:

What the risks are

There are no risks.

Special considerations

Urine pH can be affected by various factors after collection such as leaving the urine standing in an uncovered container. Bacteria usually increase the pH as they break down urea in the urine to ammonia.

Review Date: 10/22/2007

Reviewed By: Robert Mushnick, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Nephrology, SUNY Downstate Health Center, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_003583