Is stinky urine normal??

[Machiavelli]

I've read DANDR, but I don't recall reading anything that said smelly urine during induction was normal, but I've read on a few message boards that it is a common symptom of ketosis. Is it normal?? I'm drinking lots of water, atleast 64 oz a day, more like 96 to 128.

My urine is a good color (according to what I've read) I'm staying on plan, it's just got me a little freaked out.

[clogger]

Re: Is stinky urine normal??

Machiavelli, ketones are excreted in urine and breath and both can have a "distinct" odor to them during ketosis. No need to worry. Also, have you eaten asparagus? That will definitely have an effect on the smell of urine.

Great job on all the water!

[Machiavelli]

Re: Is stinky urine normal??

Yes I've eaten asparagus more days than not. I guess that could be adding to it.

It almost smells like the isopure protein shake powder.

[clogger]

Re: Is stinky urine normal??

My husband and I always refer to it as "asparagus pee" ~ meaning eww, really stinky pee !

Here's an explanation from wiseGEEK about it.

Asparagus, a green vegetable belonging to the lily family, has one notorious side effect for some diners who eat enough of it. Within a half-hour of asparagus consumption, some people notice their urine has acquired a very pungent odor, often compared to rotting cabbage, ammonia or rotten eggs. The effects of asparagus on urine are generally fleeting and harmless, but it's not necessarily the consumer's finest hour, bodily excretion-wise.

The good news is that asparagus does not affect everyone. Studies conducted on the "asparagus urine" phenomenon (aren't you glad you didn't volunteer!) indicate that roughly 40 to 50 percent of those tested developed the distinctive odor. Surprisingly enough, there is also a segment of the population who cannot smell the sulphurous fumes of asparagus-laced urine. It is believed that both the generation of the odoriferous urine and the ability to smell it are based on genetics. Only those with a certain gene can break down the chemicals inside the asparagus into their smelly components, and only those with the proper gene can smell the results of that chemical breakdown.

Scientists are still not entirely sure which set of chemicals or amino acids contained in asparagus actually cause the smelly pee. The stalks themselves do not acquire a similar odor as they are prepared, so whatever happens most likely happens after ingestion. Experts believe that those with a certain gene produce a digestive enzyme which breaks down the asparagus into various amino acids. One of those compounds is called methyl mercaptan, which is the same chemical which gives a skunk its defensive smell. One theory suggests that asparagus breaks down quickly in the body and an enzyme releases methyl mercaptan, which eventually goes through the kidneys and is excreted as a waste product in the urine.

Others suggest that the asparagus smell is created by other amino acid compounds called thioesters. There is also an amino acid called asparagusic acid, which is not surprisingly found primarily in asparagus. If these compounds are broken down and mixed with the genetically-created enzyme, the results could be a strong smelling urine. This smell is actually considered to be good news, since it proves that the asparagus eater's kidneys are functioning as they should.

[Machiavelli]

Re: Is stinky urine normal??

Well, it's good to know that my kidneys aren't failing.

Thank you for the very helpful information.

[Momma2threegirls]

Re: Is stinky urine normal??

Asperagus PEEEE!!! I hate the smell of it.

[rweeks]

Re: Is stinky urine normal??

I am sure that peeing out all of the leftovers from fat burning can't smell pretty! My smelly pee is a badge of honor! Good luck and Merry Christmas!

[kilanteangel1113]

Re: Is stinky urine normal??

I hate the stinky pee but i think its normal, at least i hope soo too lol :P