What does it mean to alkalinize urine?
Apr 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xinju
Introduction
Alkalinizing urine generally means reducing the acidity of urine. When urine becomes more acidic, for example with a pH below 6.0, uric acid in the blood may exceed its solubility limit, leading to precipitation of urate crystals in joints, kidneys, and other tissues, potentially triggering gout. In such cases, alkalinization of urine is required to reduce its acidity, thereby preventing uric acid from forming crystals or aggregating in the urine and promoting uric acid excretion.
Alkalinizing urine generally means reducing the acidity of urine, which helps prevent the occurrence of gout.
Under normal circumstances, the pH level of human urine typically ranges between 6.0 and 8.0. However, if certain adverse factors cause increased urine acidity—for example, when the pH drops below 6.0—uric acid in the blood may exceed its solubility limit, leading to the deposition of urate crystals in joints, kidneys, and other areas, potentially triggering gout. In such cases, to promote uric acid excretion, urine alkalinization is often required to reduce urinary acidity. This may involve taking medications as directed by a physician, such as sodium bicarbonate tablets or potassium sodium citrate granules, to prevent uric acid from forming crystals or aggregating in the urine, thereby preventing complications.
After developing gout, it is advisable to consume more alkaline foods such as fruits and vegetables in daily life to help alkalinize urine and alleviate symptoms.
