Why is it important to measure urinary pH?
Urine pH is one of the different parameters obtained during a complete body check-up and reflects both metabolic activity and overall well-being. In a healthy person, urine pH usually has a value of 6 (however, it can range between 4.5 and 8), so it is slightly acidic. There are certain situations that require maintaining other ranges; if you have any questions, consult your doctor.
How can I measure my urinary pH?
There are several methods for measuring urinary pH:
- Test strips: this is the most popularly known method, as it has been on the market for years. Test strips are an alternative for those who only want an approximate analysis, as their accuracy is not 100% reliable, given that they work by colors that each of us can interpret in different ways, and they only provide whole number measurements, never decimals (e.g., 5, 6, or 7). *
- Laboratory analyses are an accurate method, though a bit cumbersome, as they cannot be done from home and you have to wait a few days for the results. Furthermore, another drawback of this measurement is that by the time the urine reaches the laboratory, it is no longer "fresh urine," and the time elapsed and temperature change can alter the real pH values.
- The Lit-Control pH Meter medical device is the most innovative method on the market. It allows you to measure your pH from home with even greater accuracy than a laboratory (as urine analysis is immediate), and you get the results instantly. Additionally, you have access to a private area where you can record all measurements for your doctor to view your entire history. *
What happens if I have high or low urinary pH?
Having a low urinary pH (below 5.5) or high urinary pH (above 6.2) can often be associated with an increased risk of certain complications such as:
- Kidney stones (renal lithiasis)
- Urinary tract infections
- Painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis
- Overactive bladder
- Or risk of urinary catheter calcifications
The discomfort these conditions can present includes pain in the kidney area, unusual urine color and smell, urgency to urinate, etc. Without a doubt, this directly affects the quality of life of those who suffer from them.
Diet is a fundamental factor that affects urine pH. To maintain good urinary health, you can use the food supplements Lit-Control pH Up (to increase your pH), Lit-Control pH Down (to decrease your pH), and Lit-Control pH Balance (to maintain your pH). If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.
*GRASES F, et al: A new device for simple and accurate urinary pH testing by the Stone-former patient. SpringerPlus 2014 3:209
