COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 142
be influenced by a vegetarian diet, certain medications, or a
urinary tract infection4and in some cases, it may point to
underlying kidney issues.
Collection tip:
It's normal for urine to be more acidic in the morning and become
more alkaline as the day goes on.
Range
Units
Conventional / Functional
5 - 7.5
WBC Esterase
This is a screening test used to detect white blood cells (WBCs) in
the urine. A positive result may indicate their presence, suggesting
a possible urinary tract infection (UTI). If WBC esterase is positive, a
microscopic examination is recommended to confirm infection
and guide further investigation. This confirmation can only be
done by sending the urine sample to a laboratory.
Collection tip:
To accurately detect white blood cell levels, the dipstick should
be left for at least five minutes to allow the reagent pads to
develop and change color fully.
Negative Result
None detected, no immediate
indication of infection
Positive Result
Warrants further investigation
into infection or inflammation
Protein
The presence of protein in the urine offers insight into kidney
function and overall health. While elevated protein levels can
sometimes be temporary4triggered by factors like infection,
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