High creatinine levels indicate poor kidney function. They can also lead to kidney failure or kidney disease.
Creatinine is a waste product that is produced by the muscles in our body. Our kidneys are responsible for removing it. However, when creatinine levels are high, it means that you have kidney damage and this can lead to chronic kidney disease. If you notice swelling in your arms or legs, extreme fatigue, it may be important to check your creatinine levels. Although high creatinine levels are not life-threatening, they can lead to serious complications in the body. Diet and lifestyle changes can help with high creatinine levels. Are you wondering how to lower your creatinine levels? Start by incorporating this list of foods into your diet.
What is creatinine level?
Creatinine is a byproduct of the breakdown of creatine, a compound that is an essential substance used to create energy inside muscle cells, explains the internal medicine specialist. Dr. Basavaraj S. Kumbar. The skin helps to excrete creatinine, which is an organ that filters the blood from which excess waste is removed in the form of urine. This is because the determination of creatinine levels in the blood is used to assess the kidney status and the ability of the kidneys to stiffen. Read on to learn more about how monitor creatinine levels.
What should be the creatinine level?
In healthy young adults, the average serum creatinine concentration is 0.6 to 1.3 mg/dL, but most athletes with large muscle mass may have higher values. American Kidney Foundation states that creatinine levels for men should be between 0.7 and 1.3 mg/dL, and for women, between 0.6 and 1.1 mg/dL. These reference values can be affected by several factors, such as age, gender, muscle mass, and health status. Generally, creatinine levels in this range are said to represent normal kidney function and nothing more, says Dr. Kumbar.
Products to Lower Creatinine Levels
Be sure to add these foods to your diet if you have high creatinine levels
1. Cucumber
Cucumbers can help reduce creatine levels. One or two cucumbers a day should be eaten every day. They can be combined with salad or consumed as is. See other benefits of cucumbers to understand how they help our body.
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2. Garlic
Garlic is another ingredient that can help you control your creatinine levels. Add 1-2 cloves of garlic to your meals. It can help reduce inflammation in the body and maintain blood pressure levels, which improves kidney health. See other symptoms of kidney disease Here.
3. Onion
Onions can also help you. One onion in your daily diet can provide antioxidants that can help balance blood glucose levels and ease the burden on the kidneys. According to this study published in Indian Journal of NephrologyOnions can prevent kidney dysfunction.
4. Red bell pepper
Including red bell peppers in your diet can also help control your creatinine levels, lowering them in the process. An adult should consume at least one red bell pepper a day, both raw and cooked, as they are rich in vitamins and do not burden the kidneys. Read on to find out which bell pepper is the most useful and how it will help you.
5. Cauliflower
Eating one cup of cooked cauliflower is beneficial because it contains few minerals and helps the kidneys perform their function of removing waste efficiently. Half a cup of cooked cauliflower contains 1.8 g of fiber, which helps control creatinine levels. A study published in Clinical Journal of Kidneysclaims that adding fiber can help lower creatinine levels.
6. Apples
An apple every day gives you fiber and helps your digestive process, which can also take the strain off your kidneys. You can eat up to one apple a day for your creatinine levels. See other benefits of apples.
7. Blueberries
Blueberries also help with high creatine levels. Eating a handful of blueberries, about 1/2 cup, can be effective. Blueberries contain dozens of antioxidant ingredients that emphasize kidney health without having too much potassium. National Kidney Foundation of the United States It is also indicated that blueberries contain little sodium and phosphorus, which makes them good for the kidneys.
8. Cranberry
You can avoid UTIs by drinking unsweetened cranberry juice or fresh cranberries every day, and thus it will be easier for your kidneys to work. Read on benefits of cranberries in addition to UTI prevention.
How does high creatinine affect your body?
When creatinine levels are excessively high, it indicates poor kidney health or various kidney complications. “When the kidney’s filtering mechanism is not working properly, blood and its waste products, such as creatinine, are not removed, leading to retention of plasma creatinine and other waste products in the body,” explains Dr. Kumbar. High creatinine levels can lead to chronic kidney disease, says this study published in the U.S. National Institutes of Health of the United States. This makes them more prone to kidney injury and poor healing. Therefore, it is essential to begin treatment and make necessary lifestyle and dietary changes as soon as high creatinine levels are diagnosed.
Symptoms of High Creatinine Levels
People with high creatinine levels may experience some of these symptoms. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to check your creatinine levels as soon as possible to avoid further kidney damage.
- Fatigue
- Swelling of the legs and arms
- Chronic kidney disease or a deficiency may develop that requires treatment.
- Drug toxicity is caused by certain drugs such as antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, diuretics, and lithium.
- A kidney infection that can cause fever, painful urination, chills, nausea, and vomiting.
- Diabetes may cause increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision and extreme fatigue
- High blood pressure
- A heart condition that can cause chest pain and shortness of breath
- A urinary tract blockage can cause back pain, bloody urine, and frequent urination.
How is creatinine level measured?
Creatinine levels are measured using blood and urine tests. A serum creatinine test is done by drawing blood from a vein in your arm. A urine test is done by collecting a 24-hour urine sample. This shows how well your kidneys are functioning and whether they can filter your blood effectively. The results of these tests depend on many factors, such as your age, gender, and race. So it’s important to see a doctor with your reports and get a diagnosis rather than trying to figure them out on your own. High creatinine levels can also be a one-time occurrence. It can be due to dehydration, protein, or a creatine supplement.
Summary
High creatinine levels can lead to serious kidney complications and require early treatment. Blood and urine tests can determine your creatinine levels. Simple changes in your diet can help you lower your creatinine levels. Fruits like apples, blueberries, and cranberries can make a big difference in your kidney health. Adding them to your daily diet can help your creatinine levels and also improve your overall health and well-being. Garlic is another food ingredient that helps your kidneys and hence, it should be added to your diet. Vegetables like cauliflower, red bell peppers, and onions also help in kidney function. Cucumbers also contain essential nutrients and should be consumed daily. Apart from these, reducing protein levels, drinking more water, and avoiding creatinine supplements can also help you lower your creatinine levels and keep them under control. Salt can also lead to high blood pressure, and this can affect your kidneys. Therefore, it is also important to control salt levels.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for creatinine levels to drop?
Depending on the underlying cause, it may take weeks to months for creatinine levels in your body to decrease. However, good nutrition and hydration, along with your doctor’s guidance and recommendations, can help you lower your creatinine levels.
What is the best drink to lower creatinine levels?
Water is the best choice for lowering creatinine because it helps the kidneys remove waste more efficiently. Herbal teas, such as chamomile or nettle, can also support kidney health.