What Are Natural Ways To Reduce Creatinine Levels?

Creatinine is a waste product in the blood. It comes from the normal breakdown of muscle tissue and the digestion of protein. Everyone has some creatinine in their bloodstream. Creatinine is filtered through the kidneys and removed from the body through urine. 

Evaluating creatinine levels and kidney function

Because the amount of creatinine in the blood reflects how well the kidneys are filtering waste, creatinine levels are used to diagnose and monitor chronic kidney disease (CKD). 

Creatinine levels can be affected by factors like age, sex, body weight, and hydration levels. Blood and urine tests are used to evaluate creatinine levels and kidney function. Your doctor will help determine which test, or combination of tests is best for you based on your medical history, symptoms, and overall health. 

Maintaining good kidney function is important for overall health. Some supportive lifestyle strategies, such as staying well hydrated and managing your blood sugar and blood pressure, can help protect or stabilize kidney function and, in some cases, may help to lower creatinine levels over time. 

Stay hydrated to support kidney health

For people with normal kidney function, drinking enough water can help your kidneys flush out waste more effectively. 

You can increase your water intake by: 

• Keeping water nearby and setting reminders to drink throughout the day.
• Eating water-based foods like leafy greens, strawberries, and tomatoes.
• Limiting dehydrating beverages like alcohol and sugary drinks.

If you have a chronic kidney condition, your fluid needs may be different.  It is important to work closely with your care team to determine the appropriate daily fluid needs for you.

Managing chronic conditions can support kidney health and function

It is important to manage any chronic conditions that can affect kidney health to maintain kidney function. In many cases, medication plays an important role in managing these conditions. Examples of chronic conditions that can affect kidney health include:
 

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Obesity

A kidney-healthy diet can also support your overall health and help manage these conditions. Recommended dietary strategies include:

• Limited animal protein, especially red and processed meats.
• Low-sodium foods to support healthy blood pressure.
• Minimal added sugars to help manage blood sugar levels.
• Plenty of fruits and vegetables for fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients.
• Whole grains like brown rice, oats, or quinoa for steady energy.
• Healthy fats from sources such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocado.

Dietary needs can vary depending on your stage of kidney function, lab results, and other health conditions. Always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to create a nutrition plan that’s right for you.

Tobacco and alcohol use and kidney function

Drinking alcohol and using tobacco are known risk factors for reduced kidney function. They can contribute to long-term kidney damage, which may lead to higher creatinine levels over time.

Tobacco use can:

• Reduce blood flow to the kidneys, limiting their ability to filter waste effectively.
• Increase blood pressure, which can strain the kidneys.
• Worsen diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, both of which are leading causes of kidney disease.
• Affect medication used to treat other conditions that impact the kidneys.

Alcohol use can: 

• Reduce the ability of the kidneys to filter waste from the blood.
• Cause dehydration.
• Raise blood pressure. 
• Cause liver disease, putting additional strain on your kidneys.
• If you use alcohol or tobacco, talk to your healthcare provider about resources and strategies to help you stop.

What else can affect creatinine levels

Certain lifestyle factors can also cause temporary increases in creatinine levels without indicating long-term kidney damage. These include creatine supplements, high-intensity exercise, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. 

It's important to remember that kidney function is complex, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to diagnosis or treatment.  Each person's situation is unique, so always consult your healthcare provider to understand what your results mean and what steps are right for you. Staying consistent with follow-up appointments and discussing your lab results with your doctor can help catch changes early and guide personalized care to protect your long-term kidney function.

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Sources:

• Understanding your lab values and other CKD health numbers.  
• Healthy Hydration and Your Kidneys 
• Avoid the superfood trap: Tips to improve your creatinine and eGFR 
• Foods that Support Kidney Health 
• Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease 
• Alcohol and Your Kidneys   
• Smoking and Your Health