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Asparagus can make urine smell distinctive because the body excretes sulfur-containing compounds after you eat it. Not everyone produces enough of these odorants for them to be noticeable, and some people cannot smell them even when they are present.
What causes the smell?
Chemical analysis found as many as six sulfur-containing compounds in urine after asparagus consumption: methanethiol, dimethyl sulfide, dimethyl disulfide, bis-(methylthio)methane, dimethyl sulfoxide, and dimethyl sulfone. The 1987 study by Fenwick and colleagues identified these compounds as contributors to the characteristic odor (PubMed).
Asparagusic acid, a compound present in asparagus, has been proposed as a possible precursor to the odorants. The precise biochemical pathway is not fully established, so it is more accurate to describe it as a possible explanation than as a settled, step-by-step process (PubMed).
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Odor production and odor perception are separate differences. A person may produce too little odorant for it to be detectable, or may be unable to perceive the odor even when it is present. A psychophysical and genetic study concluded that “individual differences exist in both odorant production and odor perception.” It associated inability to smell the odor with variant rs4481887 in a cluster of olfactory receptor genes, but did not resolve the biological basis for producing no detectable odorants (Chemical Senses / PubMed Central).
#1 Best Overall
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How common is asparagus-smelling urine?
A 1987 study reported the odor in 43% of its 800 volunteers (PubMed). That is a result from one historical study, not a current universal prevalence estimate. Rates can also depend on whether a study measures odorant production or whether participants say they can smell it.
Does the odor mean something is wrong?
Asparagus is one recognized food that can cause a distinct urine odor. Other foods and some health conditions can also affect urine smell, according to MedlinePlus. Odor alone cannot identify the cause, so do not assume that a persistent or unexplained change is from asparagus—or use it to diagnose a health condition.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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Rank #2
- Grow All You Want - Extra large bulk packet of Mary Washington Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) seeds. An extremely popular asparagus variety producing thick, straight green stalks with a hint of purple at the spear. Minimum of 1oz per packet (about 1600 seeds).
- Productive - Asparagus germinates in 10-56 days when soil temps are 75-85°F. Plant 1/2” deep and space 4-6” apart in an area with full sun. This variety will grow 3-4’ tall with a spread of 30”. Asparagus is slow to mature and you will get a good harvest in 2-3 years. Plant in USDA zones 4-9.
- Perennial Crop - Asparagus is a perennial crop that will feed your family for years to come. Make tasty roasted asparagus, or try grilling your harvest with some parmesan cheese. This vegetable is even super tasty when eaten fresh and is packed with nutrients!
- Easy To Grow - Instructions included on each packet. Plus, we are available to answer all your questions. If these seeds don’t germinate, we will happily make it right for you.
- Safe and Sustainable - Our operation is fully solar powered, and Sow Right Seeds has taken the Safe Seed Pledge to sell only fresh Non-GMO heirloom seeds for you and your family.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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