pH Test Paper (pH 4.5-8.5)

Santa Barbara Nutrients’ pH paper is ideal for monitoring the pH value (acidity/alkalinity) of urine.

• The measurable pH range (4.5-8.5) is ideal for urine samples
• Fast, accurate results in seconds
• Easy to use and easy to read
• Flushable in toilet
• Inexpensive and suitable for frequent monitoring
• 15 feet of pH paper can be used for approximately 100 measurements
• Pocket-sized container can be taken anywhere
• Perfect for use at home, work or while traveling
• Consistent, high quality and made in the USA

Why measure the urine pH?

The urine pH can vary considerably depending on the kind of foods we eat and depending on certain health conditions. A perfectly neutral pH (neither acidic nor alkaline) has a value of 7. Most people in industrialized societies have acidic urine pH (for example, around pH 5 which is 100x more acidic than pH 7) due to the high consumption of acidifying foods such as grains and animal protein (meats, dairy, eggs). Furthermore, many health conditions can affect the urine pH. For example, individuals with chronic kidney disease frequently have acidic urine pH. If the urine pH is too acidic or too alkaline, there is a higher risk that microscopic crystals can form that can damage kidneys and can also lead to kidney stones. For example, acidic urine pH increases the risk of forming crystals and stones composed of calcium oxalate, uric acid, or cystine. A urine pH value near neutral (around pH 6-7.5) is ideal for most people unless they have been told by their healthcare practitioner that their urine pH should have a different value.

When should I measure?

Because the urine pH can vary significantly throughout the day depending on the intake of food and drink, it is best to initially measure several times per day to become familiar with one’s pattern. Later on, for routine monitoring it may be sufficient to measure less frequently. Measuring spot urine only once at a doctor’s office may be misleading because the result may be an outlier.

How to measure the urine pH using Santa Barbara Nutrients’ pH paper?

As you are going to the toilet, collect some urine in a cup. Rip off 2 inches (5 cm) or less of pH paper from the roll and briefly dip it halfway into the fluid. Immediately compare the color of the wet strip to the color chart on the pH paper container. You should be able to estimate the pH with an accuracy of approximately 0.5 units. Make sure the lighting is good. Flush the pH paper strip in the toilet. It may be a good idea to keep a written record to observe trends and to be able to discuss your observations with your healthcare practitioner.

What if my urine pH is too low or too high?

Discuss your results with your doctor, dietitian or other healthcare practitioner. In most cases, dietary changes can help to normalize the urine pH. Your healthcare practitioner may also recommend certain supplements, medical foods or over the counter drugs to help keep your urine pH in the healthy range. To be sure that your urine pH stays in the healthy range, it is important to keep monitoring your pH frequently and not only rely on a single spot urine measurement at a doctor’s office.

Disclaimers

This pH paper is not an approved medical device and should not be used to diagnose any disease or health condition. Do not use this pH paper after the expiration date printed on the container. Store in a dry environment at normal ambient temperature.

Download protocol (PDF file)