Most of the creatinine is released into the bloodstream and then filtered via the kidneys, being finally eliminated through urine. However, sometimes, creatinine levels can build up in the body and lead to health problems.
Normal levels vary according to your body size and muscle mass. For example, a normal range for men is between 0.6 and 1.2 mg/dl and a normal range for women is between 0.5 and 1.1 mg/dl.
Reducing protein intake
It is important to know how much protein you should consume if you have kidney disease. Your Kidneys are responsible to remove waste products from your body. High protein intake may lead to increased intraglomerular pressure and glomerular hyperfiltration.
This can cause damage to the glomerular structure leading to or aggravating chronic kidney disease (CKD). Hence, a low protein diet (LPD) of 0.6–0.8 g/kg/day is often recommended for the management of CKD. We reviewed the effect of protein intake on the incidence and progression of CKD and the role of LPD the CKD management.
Without protein, our bodies would be unable to heal from injury, stop bleeding or fight infection. That’s why eating protein is so important to staying healthy. The average person needs between 40 to 65 grams of protein each day.
Supplement and medication
Specific dietary patterns that may prevent and address kidney disease include the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. Both of these diets involve a low to moderate intake of protein, which has been associated with delaying the progression of CKD. One meta-analysis identified healthy dietary patterns that were associated with a lower mortality rate in individuals with CKD.
Kidney health supplements
Kidneys are vital organs in our bodies. They regulate fluids, remove toxins and waste products and contribute greatly to our overall well-being. The best way to promote kidney health is with a balanced diet, but some people may need additional support. Kidney health supplements help keep kidneys functioning with the added benefit of other vitamins and antioxidants that boost our body’s overall health.
Kidney health supplements are made with a variety of vitamins, minerals, and natural herbs that boost kidney and renal system health. Vitamins such as Vitamin A work to fight infection while herbs like Andrographis protect the kidneys from toxins.
Lower your salt intake
A high salt intake has been shown to shoot up the amount of protein in the urine, which could (further) lead to serious kidney damage. High sodium intake can put a strain on your kidneys. Diets that have excess salt can also contribute to high blood pressure.
While dehydration can increase the creatinine levels in the blood, fluid intake may be an issue if you have CKD. Discuss with your doctor about your fluid limit and the best time to drink them.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is another mineral that can build up in your blood when your kidneys don’t work properly. When this happens, calcium can be pulled from your bones and can collect in your skin or blood vessels. Bone disease can then become a problem, making you more likely to have a bone break.
Can Oatmeal Lower Creatinine Levels?
In a study conducted on CKD patients, eating oats didn’t show any changes in creatinine levels in kidney disease patients. Oatmeal has contains a significant amount of phosphorus and potassium, minerals that CKD patients should closely monitor.
Oatmeal is a common breakfast choice. It can be prepared with milk or water. When prepared with milk, cooked oatmeal will have more phosphorus and potassium than if it is prepared with water or other milk substitutes low in phosphorus and potassium. Oats come in different forms: traditional rolled oats and steel cut oats, which are nutritionally similar but differ in cook time. The amount of liquid and cooking time will vary depending on the oats you buy.