There are various reasons that your biomarker levels could seem inaccurate from a urinalysis measurement.

Metabolic activity varies between individuals. The time it takes for dietary changes to occur and manifest in urine depends on the individual’s metabolism, as well as several other factors such as one’s overall diet, physical activity, hydration status, renal function or overall diet.

 In general, it is important that:

• You follow your Measurement Plan's schedule and take measurements consistently and under the same conditions. The concentration of biomarkers is highly dependent on the time at which the measurement is taken. For example, taking a measurement in the morning will result in lower pH values and higher Hydrostatus values.
• You avoid getting any cleaning product into the U-Scan's collection or purge points. The presence of any cleaning product could affect your measurement levels.
• You rinse the U-Scan thoroughly after a deep cleaning.

Bio-acidity (pH) inaccuracy

Learn more about pH Balance in our dedicated article.

The target for a balanced/neutral pH level is 6-7. 

Some helpful things to know:

• Morning urine samples are more concentrated and will result in lower pH values and higher Hydrostatus values. A measurement taken in the morning will most likely have a pH below 6.  
• If you are dehydrated, pH values will tend to be more acidic and lower.
• Conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) can lower urine pH levels.
• The body's natural circadian rhythms can cause fluctuations in urine pH throughout the day.
• Certain medications and supplements can alter urine pH. For example, diuretics can increase urine alkalinity and increase the pH level, while some antibiotics can make it more acidic and lower the pH level.

Hydrostatus/Specific Gravity inaccuracy

Learn more about Hydrostatus/Specific Gravity in our dedicated article.

The target for a healthy/balanced Hydrostatus level is < 1.010. Lower Hydrostatus represents a higher concentration of water compared to urine, indicating good hydration, while higher Hydrostatus indicates poorer hydration.

If your Hydrostatus is always high despite drinking enough water: 

• Some diuretic beverages (such as coffee) can increase SG in urine. It increases the volume of urine but also minerals (ex sodium) that are excreted.
• Morning urine samples are more concentrated in urine and will result in higher Hydrostatus values.
• To lower your SG, take a measurement after drinking 2 glasses of water (with no additives).

If your Hydrostatus is always low but you feel dehydrated:

• Your pH may be too high/basic (more than 7.5). Follow our tips for pH balance to lower your pH.
• Drink more water to reduce dehydration.

Vitamin C inaccuracy

Learn more about Vitamin C in our dedicated article.

The target for a healthy/balanced level of Vitamin C is around 10.6 mg/dL or more. 

If your Vitamin C is low despite normally consuming products rich in Vitamin C:

• Only excess amounts of Vitamin C end up in urine, so a low level does not necessarily indicate a dietary deficiency. A result of 0 may simply mean that your body is efficiently utilizing all the Vitamin C you consume. 
• If the measurement is taken too long after Vitamin C intake, it may result in a low reading.
• Smoking will decrease your Vitamin C concentration in urine. 
• Oral contraceptives, Aspirin (at low doses), Probenecid Cimetidine, Phenazolpyridine, Captopril, and Riboflavin can all lower your Vitamin C levels.

If your Vitamin C level is always high:

• The following medications will increase your Vitamin C: Aspirin, Salicylates, Corticosteroids, Chemotherapy agents, Barbiturates, Tetracyclines, Anticonvulsants, and NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

Ketones inaccuracy

Learn more about Ketones in our dedicated article.

The target for a balanced Ketone level is 0-10.4 mg/dL

If your ketone levels seem elevated, it could be the result of various behaviors or lifestyle choices, such as: 

• Skipping meals
• Fasting
• Following a keto or low-carb diet
• Consuming alcohol
• Engaging in intense exercise
• Experiencing stress. 

These effects typically manifest in urine within 24 hours, and adjusting your habits can help lower ketone levels. 

Ketones are low when the body does not need to use fat, as carbohydrate levels are high enough to supply the energy it needs.