A refractometer measures the refractive index of a fluid. For urine, there might be a correlation with hydration state.

We found a nice little report on the senior project for an Ohio State University student.  The project evaluated the use of refractometry to determine the hydration state of a group of female recreational runners.  Specifically, the goal was to use the urine test to determine if runners were too dehydrated to get blood drawn.  The urine sample tests were correlated with tests on drawn blood, with the blood samples being stored in the lab refrigerator until ready for analysis. As cute as the research was, I’ve got to take issue with the conclusion, because it claims that the test is valid for a group not tested.

For further information visit people.ehe.osu.edu.

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