You urinate more at high altitude due to a combination of factors, including changes in hormone levels and kidney function. Specifically, higher altitudes induce a diuretic effect, and also increases the urine pH levels.
Here's a breakdown of why this happens:
- Diuretic Effect: Higher altitudes have a diuretic effect. This means your body is actively trying to get rid of excess fluid through urine.
- Increased Urine pH Levels: At altitudes between 1,700 and 2,800 meters, urine pH levels can rise (Ge et al., 2006).
- Natriuretic Effect: The natriuretic effect, in addition to the diuretic effect of bicarbonate, may be one of the reasons for the increase in urine output.
