Hi all --

For several months now my pee has smelled of ammonia. I was very irregular right off but is happening with greater frequency. Does anyone else have this, and is it a regular side effect of low-carbing?

I tend to doubt that it is associated with low carbing as it didn't start until I'd been on this WOE for a year, but it is worth asking -- thanks -- Robert

Could it be ketosis pee???

[Could it be ketosis pee???]

It certainly could be, but I've been in ketosis before without my urine smelling this way -- I guess that is what has me puzzled --

There are many things which can affect the odour of urine. Ketones generally lend a "chemical" note to urine and breath since they're related to acetone, which is a compound in nail polish and paint remover. Some supplements will cause the urine to have a strong smell and colour .. B-complex especially, since these are often derived from nutritional yeasts. Certain foods will cause odorific urine too ... asparagus springs to mind.

Urea is the waste by-product of protein metabolism, and can cause a "meaty" or slight ammonia-like odour in the urine .. and breath. Urea is excreted in the urine and the stool, so you need to make sure you're drinking lots of water to keep the urine dilute and the kidneys flushed. Adequate hydration as well as dietary fiber and fat will keep the bowels regular.

If your urine continues to have a definite ammonia odour even with increased water and fiber intake, it could signal a problem in your liver or kidneys, such as an infection. A visit to your dr. would be a good idea


hth,

Doreen

=thank you=, Doreen! This was a very informative message. I am taking a different vitamin B complex than I was last year, so that may well be it. I just did blood tests and my doctor hasn't called, so I imagine they are normal.

As always, I appreciate the help!
Cheers, Robert