What the Color of Your Urine Says About Your Health

Introduction

Most of us don’t think twice about the color of our urine, but it can actually tell you a lot about your hydration, diet, and even your overall health. While some changes are completely harmless, others may be a signal to pay attention to your body or see a doctor.

Here’s a helpful guide to what the different colors of urine might mean.

Clear Urine

What it means: You’re very well hydrated — maybe even overhydrated.

When to be cautious: If your urine is always clear and you’re going to the bathroom frequently, you might be drinking too much water, which can flush out essential minerals.

Pale Yellow (Straw-Colored)

What it means: This is the ideal color! It shows you’re properly hydrated and your body is functioning well.

Why it happens: The color comes from urochrome, a natural pigment created as the body breaks down hemoglobin.

Dark Yellow or Amber