What is the Creatinine?

Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscles during normal metabolism. It is formed from the breakdown of creatine, a substance found in muscles that plays a crucial role in energy production. Creatinine is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted through urine, making it a key indicator of kidney function. Monitoring creatinine levels is essential for assessing the efficiency of the kidneys in filtering and eliminating waste. Elevated creatinine levels may indicate impaired kidney function, emphasizing the importance of maintaining optimal levels for overall kidney health.

Abnormal creatinine levels may be a sign of kidney disease 

Relationship between high creatinine levels and kidney dysfunction

High creatinine levels often signify impaired kidney function. The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining the body’s internal balance by filtering waste products, including creatinine, from the blood. When the kidneys are functioning optimally, they efficiently eliminate creatinine through urine.

Normal blood Creatinine levels

Normal result is 0.7 to 1.3 mg/dL (61.9 to 114.9 µmol/L) for men and 0.6 to 1.1 mg/dL (53 to 97.2 µmol/L) for women.

Women often have a lower blood creatinine level than men. This is because women often have less muscle mass than men.

Causes of elevated creatinine levels

Abnormal creatinine levels can be influenced by various factors, reflecting both kidney and non-kidney-related issues. Here are some common causes:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
• A family history of kidney disease
• blocked urinary tract
• Diabetes
• Heart failure (reduces blood flow to the kidneys)
• Intense exercise
• High blood pressure (damages blood vessels in the kidney)
• Thyroid disease
• Pregnancy (there can be certain changes in kidney function and fluid balance)
• Autoimmune diseases
• Bacterial infection of the kidneys
• Medications (NSAIDS and antibiotics)

Signs and symptoms

You may have these symptoms and need a creatinine test:

• changes in urination (frequency, pain, foaminess, or blood)
• muscle cramps
• swelling in the feet or ankles
• fatigue
• nausea or vomiting
• puffiness around the eyes

How to reduce creatinine levels naturally

Here are 7 ways to naturally lower your creatinine levels.

1. Reduce Protein Intake

Although protein is essential for muscle health, excessive protein may cause elevated creatinine levels.

Here are some general tips to decrease protein intake:

• Choose Lean Protein Sources: Opt for lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, tofu, legumes, and low-fat dairy products. These options provide protein with less saturated fat.

• Limit Red Meat: Red meat tends to be higher in saturated fat and may contribute to increased protein intake. Consider reducing the frequency and portion size of red meat servings.
• Explore Plant-Based Proteins: Incorporate more plant-based protein sources into your diet, including beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and soy products. These can be lower in saturated fat and beneficial for overall health.

2. Don’t Take Creatine Supplements

Talk with your doctor before adding any supplement to your diet.

Creatin is a natural compound made in your liver. It’s transported to your muscles where it’s used for energy. When creatine is used as energy, it’s degraded into creatinine, a metabolic byproduct.

In addition to its natural form, creatine is available as an oral supplement. Some athletes use these creatinine-producing supplements to help enhance athletic performance.

For individuals with healthy kidneys, creatine supplementation is usually well-tolerated and may offer benefits for certain types of physical activities. However, those with pre-existing kidney issues should avoid creatine supplements, as they could potentially exacerbate kidney strain.

3. Proper Hydration

Proper hydration ensures that the kidneys can effectively filter and eliminate waste products, including creatinine, from the blood. This helps maintain normal creatinine levels.

Ample water intake helps dilute the concentration of creatinine in the blood, making it easier for the kidneys to excrete. This can contribute to normalizing creatinine levels.

4. Restrict Salt Intake

Excessive salt consumption is linked to high blood pressure, which can contribute to kidney damage over time. Maintaining a lower salt intake helps regulate blood pressure and supports kidney health.

Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, as these tend to be naturally lower in salt compared to processed foods.

5. Eat More Fiber

While there isn’t a direct link between fiber intake and creatinine levels, a high-fiber diet can contribute to overall kidney health and support general well-being.

Fiber can be foundin the foods like:

• Whole Grains (brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat.)
•  Fruits and Vegetables (colorful fruits and vegetables, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants)
• Legumes (Beans, lentils, and chickpeas)
• Nuts and Seeds (Almonds, chia seeds, and flax seeds).

6. Limit Alcohol Intake

Alcohol consumption can be tricky when it comes to kidney function. Some studies have shown that alcohol consumption may decrease kidney disease.

But other studies also shown that excessive alcohol consumption has the potential damage to the kidneys.

So limiting alcohol intake is a wise choice for maintaining normal creatinine levels and overall kidney health. Here’s why:

• Alcohol is a diuretic, leading to increased urine production and potential dehydration. Dehydration can concentrate the blood, affecting kidney function and creatinine levels.
• Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to high blood pressure, a risk factor for kidney disease. Keeping blood pressure in a healthy range is crucial for preserving kidney function.

7. Avoid Smoking

Smoking cigarettes can harm the body, including kidneys.

• Smoking can constrict blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the kidneys. Adequate blood flow is essential for optimal kidney function, including the filtration of waste products like creatinine.
• Cigarette smoke contains harmful substances that contribute to oxidative stress. This oxidative stress can damage tissues, including the kidneys. Quitting smoking helps reduce oxidative stress and supports kidney health. 
• Smoking is a known risk factor for hypertension (high blood pressure). High blood pressure can strain the kidneys, potentially leading to elevated creatinine levels and kidney damage.

Quitting can be a way to reduce the likelihood of issues with your kidneys that may increase creatinine levels.

Takeaway

Maintaining normal creatinine levels and promoting overall kidney health involves adopting healthy lifestyle choices. Stay adequately hydrated to support kidney function. Water helps flush out waste products, including creatinine, and contributes to overall well-being. Maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods.