You really shouldn't worry too much about the strips. I know they can be addictive, but they aren't that great an indicator of what's going on with your body. And a dark strip means you are not getting enough water, so that's not good. IF you are going to use them, aim for pink.

Honestly though I'd say, just toss them. Use fitday (www.fitday.com) to record what you eat and go by that.