You may be one of those who choose to start your day with coffee or some other source of caffeine, since this substance has stimulant properties that make you feel more alert. Other sources of caffeine include tea, chocolate and many cola drinks, as well as certain medications and diet pills. Caffeine can have many side effects, and these may include diuretic properties. Knowing the possible role of caffeine in frequent urination may help you discuss your concerns with your doctor.
Consumption
Reports differ on whether caffeine has a diuretic effect, causing you to urinate more. MedlinePlus, sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, lists caffeine as a diuretic. However, in a 2003 study at Loughborough University, researchers determined that caffeine does not cause changes in the fluid balance in your body.
Registered dietician Katherine Zeratsky states that although moderate intake of caffeine has proved not to have a diuretic effect, “large amounts" of 500 to 600 mg of caffeine daily, or about five or more cups of coffee a day, do have a diuretic effect. If you do not drink coffee, keep in mind that, on average, one serving of cola contains around 35 mg of caffeine and black tea ranges from 40 to 120 mg.
Other Side Effects
Caffeine can cause other side effects, including anxiety, restlessness, increased heart rate, shaky hands and upset stomach. If you suddenly stop your intake of caffeine you may also experience withdrawal side effects. Common symptoms include headache, irritability and tiredness.
Causes
Causes other than caffeine intake could result in frequent urination. Medications could have a diuretic effect, or you may have a urinary tract infection. Diabetes, an enlarged prostate or infection in the prostate gland can also increase the frequency of urination, as can stroke, tumors or various bladder conditions.
Considerations
Contact your doctor if you experience constant, frequent urination, pain, blood in your urine or any other unusual symptoms. Your doctor may test your urine for infection or other markers of potential problems. If this does not help your doctor determine the cause for your symptoms, she may recommend further testing such as blood tests, ultrasound or bladder pressure measurements.
If your doctor determines that excessive caffeine consumption may contribute to frequent urination, she may recommend gradually reducing your caffeine intake.
References
- MedlinePlus: Caffeine in the Diet
- MayoClinic.com; Caffeine: Is It Dehydrating or Not?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.; August 2011
- MedlinePlus: Frequent or Urgent Urination
- “Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics”; Caffeine Ingestion and Fluid Balance: A Review; R. J. Maughan et al.; December 2003
- MayoClinic.com; Caffeine Content for Coffee, Tea, Soda and More; October 2009
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