What each colour of urine indicates about your health

As your kidneys filter your blood, eliminating excess water and waste, the colours of your urine can provide crucial health indicators.

This mixture, consisting of approximately 95% water and other substances, travels to the bladder and exits the body as urine.

Sometimes changes in your health might be indicated by changes in the colour, smell, or frequency of your urination. Normal pee often has a faint golden colour and a subtle smell. Although minor colour or odour changes are often benign, it may be prudent to consult a healthcare professional if they persist or worsen.

By keeping an eye out for these indicators, you can easily monitor your level of hydration and identify any potential health problems early on.

These are the hues of urine and what they indicate about your health.

Very Light Yellow or Clear
Urine that is clear or extremely pale yellow usually indicates that you are well hydrated. This is generally a positive indication, but if your pee is consistently clear, it may indicate that you are consuming too much water, which may cause your salt levels to drop.

Yellow Light to Medium
This is regarded as a normal, healthy urine hue. Light yellow indicates that you are drinking enough water without going overboard.

Amber to Dark Yellow
Urine that is amber or dark yellow frequently indicates that you need more water. When water consumption is reduced in the morning or after exercise, dark yellow is typical. Usually, drinking extra water fixes it.

Orange
Urine can become orange due to dehydration, but there are other possible causes as well. This tint can be brought on by high beta-carotene intake (from foods like carrots) or certain drugs. If persistent orange urine doesn’t go away, it may also be a sign of liver or bile problems. Consult a physician.

Red or pink
This might indicate the presence of blood or be from specific foods like berries or beets. Pink or crimson urine may indicate kidney problems, infections, or kidney stones, however eating can change the colour. Consult a medical professional if you are unable to attribute it to your diet.

Cola or brown-colored
Urine that is brown or black might be a sign of dehydration or something more serious. This hue may be the result of extreme dehydration or liver or renal issues. Brown urine can also be a symptom of rhabdomyolysis, a disorder in which muscular tissue breaks down. If you often notice this tint, see a doctor.

Green or Blue
Urine may appear blue or green due to certain drugs, dyes, or medical problems, albeit this is uncommon. A disease known as hypercalcemia (high calcium) may potentially be the cause, as may some drugs or foods containing strong colours. Although usually innocuous, persistent green or blue urine should be discussed with your physician.

Milky or cloudy
Urine that is hazy may indicate an illness or an excess of minerals. This may indicate minor dehydration, kidney stones, or an infection of the urinary tract. Excess proteins or lipids can also cause cloudy urine.