Cloudy urine can be surprising and even a little concerning. You might wonder if it signals an infection or something more serious. While medical conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney problems can cause cloudy urine, many people don’t realize that diet plays a significant part, too.

Cloudy urine can result from everyday foods and drinks like dairy products, high-protein foods, sugary beverages, caffeine, alcohol, and certain vegetables like beets or asparagus. These items may affect urine clarity due to their mineral content, diuretic effects, or impact on hydration. In many cases, the cloudiness is harmless and temporary. Still, it helps to know what might be behind the change.

Here are six common foods and drinks that could be causing your urine to look cloudy.

1. Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, and other dairy foods are high in phosphorus and calcium. When your body processes excess amounts of these minerals, it may release some of them through your urine. This can create a cloudy or milky appearance.

People who consume a lot of dairy or take calcium supplements may notice this more often. If you’re not experiencing other symptoms, this is usually not dangerous. But if the cloudiness continues or is paired with pain or odor, speak with your healthcare provider.

2. Meat and High-Protein Foods

Eating a diet rich in red meat, poultry, or protein shakes can raise the acid level in your urine. This can sometimes lead to the formation of uric acid crystals, which make the urine appear cloudy.

In some people, especially those who don’t drink enough water, a high-protein diet may even increase the risk of kidney stones. Staying well-hydrated can help flush out excess substances and keep your urine clear.

3. Beets and Asparagus

These vegetables don’t cause cloudiness directly, but they may change the appearance and smell of your urine. For example, asparagus can give urine a strong odor, and beets may tint it red or pink. However, in some cases, plant compounds in these foods can interact with minerals and temporarily cloud the urine.

While this is typically harmless, it’s worth noting if it happens frequently or alongside discomfort.

4. Sugary Drinks and Soda

Beverages high in sugar—especially colas and fruit-flavored drinks—can lead to dehydration if consumed in place of water. When you’re not well-hydrated, your urine becomes more concentrated. This may result in a darker or cloudier appearance.

Some sodas also contain phosphoric acid, which may contribute to mineral imbalances in the urine. Over time, these changes can irritate the urinary tract or even promote stone formation in susceptible individuals.

5. Caffeinated Beverages

Coffee, tea, and energy drinks all contain caffeine, which acts as a mild diuretic. That means it can increase urine output and lead to dehydration, especially if you’re not drinking enough water to balance it out.

Dehydration is one of the most common causes of cloudy urine. If your urine looks murky and you’ve had several cups of coffee or tea, this might be the cause. Try drinking more plain water and see if the clarity improves.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol, like caffeine, can cause you to lose more fluid through your urine. This can result in dehydration, making your urine more concentrated and cloudy.

In some cases, alcohol can also irritate the bladder, especially if consumed in large amounts. This irritation may lead to mild inflammation or changes in the urine, including cloudiness or foamy bubbles.

When Should You Worry?

Occasional cloudy urine due to something you ate or drank is usually not a cause for concern. It often clears up once your body processes the excess nutrients or becomes rehydrated. But if the cloudiness persists or is accompanied by pain, burning, foul odor, or fever, it may indicate:

A urinary tract infection (UTI)
Kidney stones
Dehydration
High levels of protein in the urine (proteinuria)
Vaginal discharge (in women) mixing with urine

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

Final Thoughts

What you eat and drink can have a real impact on your body—including the appearance of your urine. Foods rich in minerals, proteins, and certain vegetables, along with sugary or caffeinated drinks, may cause temporary cloudiness. Most of the time, this isn’t harmful. But if you notice ongoing changes or other symptoms, it’s important to get checked.