Taking vitamins is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to support and improve your health and wellbeing. Vitamin supplements will make you feel energized, focused, and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You may also experience some unexpected side effects such as bright yellow wee.
Why is my urine bright yellow?
Though it may be alarming to see such a bright color in the toilet bowl, there’s no need to worry. Changes in your urine color is caused by a pigment known as urobilin. The more water you drink, the more diluted and lighter your wee will be.
Adding new vitamin supplements to your daily health regimen can also impact the color of your urine. Several vitamins have been linked to fluorescent yellow urine, including:
- Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Protein shakes fortified with B vitamins
B vitamins are water-soluble, which means that they aren’t stored in the tissues or fat. It’s also worth noting that your body doesn’t absorb 100% of the vitamins that you take.
For example, the body can only absorb 27 milligrams of riboflavin at a time. The rest is excreted through the urine.
Am I taking too many supplements?
Not everyone will experience bright-colored urine. It all depends on your body’s absorptive capacity along with the type of vitamins you’re taking. Having bright wee doesn’t mean that you should reduce or stop taking vitamin supplements altogether.
B vitamins play a crucial role in the body. They have a direct impact on brain function, energy levels, and cell metabolism. Unless directed by your doctor, there’s no harm in continuing to take vitamin supplements.
Other factors that impact urine color
Even when taking vitamins, you’ll notice that your wee color changes throughout the day. You’re likely to have darker colored urine in the morning, and as you hydrate, the intense color begins to fade.
Urine color is impacted by many factors, including:
- Hydration
- Food intake
- Prescription medications
- Food dye
Make note of your normal wee colors and be aware of any abnormal changes that may warrant a trip to your doctor.
The bottom line
Shock value aside, bright yellow pee isn’t something to be worried about. It’s a harmless sign that you’re taking more B vitamins than your body needs.
But, if you’re concerned about the color of your wee, speak with your physician.
