The urinary tract, or urinary system, is a collection of nerves, organs and muscles that are responsible for producing, storing and removing urine in the human body. Various components of your diet affect your urinary tract and how the nutrients are broken down. Consult your physician if you believe your diet is causing problems in your urinary tract.
How the Urinary Tract Works
After your body has used all the nutrients it needs from your diet, your urinary tract works with other bodily systems to keep the water and chemical levels balanced. Foods containing protein are broken down into a certain type of waste called urea. Urea is carried to the kidneys, where it is mixed with water and other waste to become urine. Urine then travels to the bladder where it is stored until you urinate.
Protein
Proteins are obtained from dietary sources and are broken down into amino acids. Protein is a part of every cell in your body. Dietary sources of protein commonly include meats, poultry, fish and dairy. Other foods high in protein are legumes, tofu, some grains and nuts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most adults in the United States get more than enough protein in their diet. Adult women need approximately 46 g of protein a day and adult men should consume 56 g a day.
High Protein and Urinary Tract Health
A diet high in protein increases the output of urea and causes the urine to be more acidic, according to a 2005 article published in the “American Academy of Family Physicians.” Traditionally, low-protein diets have been used to delay the progression of kidney disease. Because of this, the effects of a high-protein diet on kidney function has been a concern. However, no adverse effects of a high-protein diet have been linked to people with no prior renal difficulties.
Proteinuria
Proteinuria is a condition where too much protein is found in the urine. Normal functioning kidneys take waste out of the blood and leave in the protein. Excessive protein in your urine does not cause any problems or symptoms on its own, but it could be a sign that your kidneys are not functioning properly. If you have proteinuria, your doctor may recommend a lower protein diet to prevent damage to your kidneys. According to Chemocare.com, your diet should be limited to 15 to 20 percent protein, along with other changes.
