DR. WALKER

Foamy Urine: What Does It Mean

Urine is comprised of several electrolytes and other chemicals to include salt and water. That being said, it is not too uncommon to have some foam in the urine. For the most part however, these materials do not produce a significant amount of foam in the toilet by themselves. Somethings that could affect the foaminess of the urine however could include how fast the urine strikes the water in the toilet, or even other chemicals in the toilet. Foamy urine however could suggest early signs of underlying health conditions/problems. One medical concern causing foamy urine could be too much protein in the urine; a condition called proteinuria. This could mean that the kidneys are failing, and hence the passage of protein. This may be secondary to having blood glucose levels that are chronically elevated, so that the kidneys have difficulty filtering the blood adequately. When this happens, both protein and glucose could be excreted from the body into the urine which could result in the foamy appearance.

Why does foamy urine/proteinuria occur?

Lending to the main functionality of the kidneys are the small vessels that provide the kidneys with nutrients and oxygen. If these small vessels are damaged, there is little conventional medicine could offer to reverse it. The hope is that with lifestyle modifications, the progression of this disorder could be slowed. Some disorders associated with proteinuria include dehydration, or intense exercise. But long-standing elevated blood sugar and high blood pressure could likewise lead to proteinuria, from damage to these small vessels in the kidneys.

What exactly is proteinuria?

Proteinuria, simply put is elevated protein in the urine. Almost 7% of the US population suffers from proteinuria. Although there is often no physical symptom, this could be an early sign of damage to the kidneys. Overtime the normal functionality of the kidney diminishes and could result in dialysis or kidney transplantation. During the initial phase of the body leaking protein, the protein levels might be minimally elevated in the urine. As the condition progresses, however and the damage gets worse, more protein leaves the body in a condition known as “full blown albuminuria.” Two of the main causes of foamy urine are: long standing diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.

What are commonly associated findings with foamy urine?

• Foamy urine
• Swelling of the hands, feet, face and/or abdomen.
• Frequent urination.
• Shortness of breath.
• Tiredness.
• Nausea and Vomiting.
• Lack of appetite.
• Muscle cramping.
• Loss of appetite.
• Trouble sleeping.

How do I slow the progression of this disorder?

• Smoking cessation.
• Stay hydrated.
• Eat green, leafy vegetables.
• Reduce salt intake.
• Better sleep hygiene.
• Reduce stress.
• Limit alcohol.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise/Walking.

What are some common ways to evaluate foamy urine?

Ultrasound imaging test. A renal ultrasound or kidney ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive test that does not use radiation. This test may be used to evaluate the size, shape, and location of the kidneys. You may be asked to drink water before the exam to fill your bladder. Ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow to the kidneys.
Blood test. A blood glucose test is a blood test that looks to see if your blood sugar levels are too high which could be a cause of foamy urine.
Urine dipstick. A urine dipstick test is a type of fluid analysis used by medical professionals to test urine for various diseases and health complications to include the presence of compounds like proteins, ketones, hemoglobin, and nitrites. The test is done by using a special strip of paper that is dipped into a sample of urine. Test results may be available almost immediately.

Self-Care Tips:

As discussed, one of the main causes of foamy urine is diabetes or pre diabetes. This is generally eating foods with high carbohydrates, and high sugar. Insulin, helps to break down and transport glucose to the cells to be used as energy, but sometimes people with diabetes do not respond well to insulin. As a result, blood sugars become elevated and diabetic symptoms begin. Here are a few things that could help to control your blood sugars:

Berberine is found in a variety of plant species used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and other medicinal traditions to support healthy blood sugar, lower triglyceride, increase HDL (good) cholesterol and lowers apolipoprotein B by as much as15%; important risk factor for heart disease. Berberine also helps increase weight loss, improve heart health, helps decrease insulin resistance and aid in the management of conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Berberine also decreases levels of C-reactive protein; a marker of inflammation. Generally, 500 mg per day before meal.

Foods with low glycemic load: The glycemic index of a food is relative, ranking of how different carbohydrates affect blood glucose levels. Foods that have a high glycemic index are more likely to spike blood sugars than foods with lower glycemic index. People with diabetes or pre-diabetes should consider foods that have a low glycemic index to include: green leafy vegetables, berries, nuts, avocados, coconut, eggs, and wild-caught fish.

Bitter Melon. Bitter melon helps lower blood glucose levels, and improves insulin sensitivity. It is thought that bitter melon functions like an appetite suppressant and to that end helps decrease blood sugars. Studies show that bitter melon extract can help reduce and manage symptoms of diabetes, promotes heart health, decreases risk for kidney damage, and blood vessel damage. Bitter melon is also packed with multiple vitamins and minerals to include: vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, zinc, copper, and magnesium. Add a few slices to your water as you drink it throughout the day.