Unexpected White Particles in Urine: What Could It Mean?

There are impurities in the urine?

Hello, I recently experienced something quite unbelievable and would like to ask a doctor if this is possible or if there is something wrong with my body.
Here’s what happened: last night, out of boredom, I took out a box of a popular Japanese mint candy called MINTIA, which comes in small tablet form.
I accidentally consumed about half a box, around 20 tablets.
However, when I went to the bathroom later, I noticed something unusual.
While urinating, I smelled a minty scent and, upon closer inspection, I was shocked to see that my urine contained a white powdery substance.
My friend didn’t believe me, so during my second urination, I intentionally did it over the sink to see better...
and indeed, there were white powdery particles mixed in my urine, along with several larger granules.
They felt soft, similar to fish food that has been soaked in water.
Additionally, I felt a sensation of foreign material passing through my urethra, accompanied by slight pain...
In the photos, you can clearly see the white powdery and granular substances in the silver area.
The white ceramic area is less clear, but there were many impurities that gradually diminished after my third trip to the bathroom.
I don’t think it could be crystallized stones or anything like that, as I usually stay well-hydrated and have never had this issue before.
I always believed that solid food consumed by humans could not end up in urine, but this incident has truly occurred...
so I am very surprised and worried.
I would like to ask the doctor if this is possible?? Or is there something wrong with my digestive system??? Please help me understand.

KAKA, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/10/07

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Is it really that coincidental? The impurities in your urine may not necessarily be from the foods you've eaten.
It is advisable to drink plenty of water regularly, and if impurities appear again, please visit a hospital for a urine examination.

Reply Date: 2009/10/07

More Info

The presence of unexpected white particles in urine can be concerning, and it's understandable that you're worried about what this might mean for your health. Based on your description, it seems that you recently consumed a significant amount of a mint candy called MINTIA, and shortly after, you noticed white particles in your urine along with a minty smell.
Firstly, it’s important to note that urine can sometimes contain various substances that may not necessarily indicate a serious health issue. The white particles you observed could be remnants of the candy you consumed, especially if they were not fully digested or absorbed by your body. When you eat solid foods, they typically undergo digestion in the stomach and intestines, but in some cases, undigested particles can pass through the urinary system, particularly if they are small enough.
The sensation of having something passing through your urethra and the slight pain you experienced could be attributed to irritation caused by these particles. This is not uncommon, especially if the particles are larger or have a texture that can cause discomfort. Additionally, if you have been consuming a lot of mint or other strong-flavored foods, it can sometimes lead to changes in urine odor and appearance.

However, while it is possible that the particles are related to your recent candy consumption, there are other potential causes for white particles in urine that should not be overlooked. For instance, the presence of white blood cells, bacteria, or crystals can also lead to cloudy or particulate urine. Conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, or other underlying health issues can manifest in similar ways.
Given that you mentioned you typically stay well-hydrated, this is a positive sign, as adequate hydration can help dilute urine and reduce the likelihood of crystal formation. However, if you notice that the white particles persist, or if you experience additional symptoms such as increased pain, changes in urination frequency, or any signs of infection (like fever or chills), it would be wise to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a urinalysis to determine the exact nature of the particles and rule out any potential health issues.

In summary, while the white particles in your urine may be related to the MINTIA candy you consumed, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the particles continue to appear or if you experience any discomfort, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They can provide you with the necessary tests and guidance to ensure your urinary health is in good standing. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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