Your urine can reveal more about your health than you might think.

From its color and smell to how often you go, every bathroom trip offers clues about what’s happening inside your body. Paying attention to these signs can help you catch potential issues early.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor about any concerns.

1. Sweet or fruity-smelling urine

If your urine has a sugary or fruity smell, it might be a sign your body is trying to flush out excess sugar. This can be an early symptom of high blood sugar or diabetes.

When glucose builds up in the bloodstream and spills into urine, it may also lead to dehydration, causing your urine to appear darker or more concentrated. If this happens more than once, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor.

2. Blue or green urine

A bluish or green tint in urine can be alarming but is often due to harmless factors like food dyes or medications used for depression, pain, acid reflux, or sleep issues.

In rare cases, it might be linked to medical conditions such as blue diaper syndrome, a rare genetic disorder seen in newborns. If the discoloration doesn’t have a clear cause or lasts more than a day or two, seek medical advice.

3. Dark, infrequent urination

Urine that’s darker than normal and less frequent usually points to dehydration. You might also feel tired, dizzy, or mentally foggy. Drinking more water typically helps, but if your urine turns orange and you notice pale-colored stools, it could indicate a problem with your bile ducts and should be checked by a doctor.

Dark brown urine could also be caused by foods like fava beans or rhubarb, or medications like chloroquine or metronidazole.

It might also signal liver issues or conditions like porphyria or rhabdomyolysis, a muscle breakdown disorder. Intense physical activity can also darken urine temporarily, especially after long runs. If the change lasts or is paired with other symptoms, get it checked out.

4. Ammonia-like smell

A strong ammonia odor often suggests dehydration, but it could also point to a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are common, especially in women and older adults.

Other symptoms may include cloudy or reddish urine, pain during urination, frequent urges to pee, fever, or confusion. If several of these occur together, consult a doctor right away to prevent complications.

5. Clear or very pale urine

Crystal-clear urine often means you’re well-hydrated—or perhaps even overhydrated. Drinking too much water can dilute essential electrolytes your body needs. Occasional clear urine is fine, but if it’s consistent and you’re not overdrinking, it could point to health issues such as liver disease. In such cases, a medical checkup is recommended.

Cloudy or milky urine may indicate high alkalinity levels in the body, often harmless and improved with better hydration and diet. But if cloudiness is consistent or persistent, it may suggest a deeper issue, and it’s wise to seek medical evaluation.

Bottom line

Your body uses your urine to send messages about your health. Shifts in smell, color, or frequency are often harmless—but not always. If something seems unusual and doesn’t go away, don’t ignore it. Talk to a healthcare provider.

Bonus reminder

Listen to your body. When you feel the urge to go, don’t hold it in. Delaying urination too often can have negative effects on your bladder and overall health.