If you’re suffering from discomfort due to your urinary tract, your physician may administer a urine pH test to measure the acidity of your urine. Primary causes may be kidney stones, certain medications or infection. Generally, the normal pH range for urine is between 4.6 to 8.0, although it may vary depending on the laboratory testing your urine. If you exhibit a low pH level of less than 4.6, this may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, diarrhea or starvation. Due to these possible underlying conditions, it is imperative to seek medical attention should you feel any pain or discomfort as you may require prescription medication. Usually, you will also need to eat certain foods to increase your urine pH as well. Only you and your physician can outline food allowances.
Eat citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, clementines, lemons or limes, which cause the urine to become more alkaline. If your urine is too acidic, you are at risk for uric acid-based kidney stones, MedlinePlus notes.
Opt for dark green leafy vegetables, such as kale, spinach, chard, arugula, romaine lettuce and collard greens. These foods are alkaline in nature and help raise urine pH, according to the Cornell Institute for Biology teachers. However, you should moderate your intake of these veggies, especially if you have a specific illness causing a low pH, because these varieties contain oxalates -- a compound responsible for kidney stones.
Dissolve sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, in a 4 oz. glass of water. Drugs.com states that you can safely consume 325 to 2,000 mg of baking soda 1 to 3 times daily.
Take a combination of magnesium and calcium citrate oral supplements, which aid in the alkalization of the urine. A study published in the March 2008 issue of the “Journal of the American Society of Nephrology” found that magnesium and calcium effectively regulate the urine pH by either raising or lowering levels, depending on the individual.
Drink milk, yogurt or eat dairy foods, which are high in calcium and act to increase urine pH. Choose low-fat or nonfat varieties, as these items tend to be high in saturated fat. Also, select plain yogurt, as flavored items may be high in processed sugar, which can irritate the urinary tract.