Can diet lower creatinine levels?

When creatinine levels are elevated, this may indicate a problem with renal function. Creatine - A waste of muscle activity found in blood - is excreted through the urine from the body after it is filtered out of the blood in the kidneys. Creatinine testing is widely used to measure renal function, but elevated levels may also be affected by hydration, body muscle mass, or certain medications. If the creatinine level is higher than the normal range, ask the doctor to evaluate the cause. If associated with kidney disease, changing some diet may help reduce creatinine levels and reduce the risk of renal failure.


protein


A common recommendation to lower creatinine is to reduce dietary protein intake, especially when kidney disease is present. Creatine is formed through a series of metabolic reactions that occur when the protein is broken down into amino acids, creatine in the muscle component is broken down, and creatine is also found in the meat. Therefore, higher amounts of dietary protein can increase creatinine in the blood, and it is believed that limiting high protein foods such as meat, poultry, fish, milk and cheese may help lower creatinine levels. However, the significance of changes in temporary creatinine levels remains unclear as the study focuses more on how the diet affects progression or worsening renal insufficiency - a symptom characterized by a sustained increase in creatinine levels. A review published in the September 2005 issue of Nutrition and Metabolism states that there is not enough evidence to show that people without kidney disease are compromised by a high-protein diet. However, the current evidence suggests that people with preexisting kidney disease may benefit from reduced protein dietary intake.


fiber


The effect of fiber on creatinine levels has recently become the subject of research. According to a review article published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition in November 2014, the researchers concluded that dietary fiber may reduce creatinine levels. The researchers hypothesize that the mechanism behind this may be the ability of the fiber to help creatinine breakdown before it reaches the kidneys. Fibers are found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and beans. If kidney function is already impaired, adding fiber to the diet poses challenges as these high-fiber foods naturally have higher levels of potassium and phosphorus, and in some people with renal failure these nutrients also need to be administered in the diet In the restrictions. Therefore, anyone who has a kidney disease must receive continuing education and nutrition treatment from a dietitian specializing in kidney disease.


Fluid and medicine


If you dehydrate, creatinine levels may be higher, because your blood is thicker. If this is a suspected cause of your abnormal test results, your doctor may suggest drinking more water and repeat the test. Some medications can also raise creatinine levels, some by causing creatinine production or remaining in the body to cause dehydration and some others. Strenuous exercise, because it can cause muscle breakdown, may also lead to higher levels. Finally, using creatinine supplements can cause transient increases in creatinine, according to the Permanente Magazine Spring 2012 review. If medication or supplements are the cause, your doctor may suggest changes as needed.


caveat


If your creatinine level is high or you have any concerns about your kidney function, consult your doctor to accurately interpret your blood test results and treatment recommendations. If creatinine levels are elevated due to impaired renal function, limiting dietary protein and increasing fiber intake may be helpful, any dietary changes should be made with your doctor's advice. Working with dietitians specializing in kidney disease to help plan meals to ensure that all nutritional needs are met, any changes in diet are intended to improve kidney function and reduce health complications.