To bring my creatinine count gradually back to normal. Do I have to decrease my protein intake? Or increase it? I have a family who need me?

[Ramboar]

My creatinine count is 11.5. What stage of CKD is mine? What must I do to increase protein intake to reduce my creatinine count as instructed?

[Sammi_n_Munk]

Hello Ramboar. I don’t remember if you are receiving dialysis treatments or not, but if you are, try to remember that some dialysis patients are encouraged to eat protein as the dialysis process can often times remove too much protein from the blood. A creatinine level in the tens and elevens or possibly higher, may be normal for those on dialysis.

You really should speak to a member of your care team to discuss your concerns regarding your creatinine levels. They are more familiar with your medical background and therefore, are better able to advise you on this.

However, if you are not on dialysis, and your creatinine is high, then yes, you would need to strongly limit (lower) your protein intake. This can include foods such as, red meats, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, dairy (cheese, yogourt, etc.), beans and legumes (kidney beans, navy beans, lentils, etc.), nuts and seeds, any protein powders and / or bars, and any whole grain foods such as whole grain wheat, oats, barley, rice, quinoa, etc.

As well as lowering your protein intake, should your doctors advise you to, in order to decrease your creatinine levels, it would also be helpful for you to eat a diet that includes plenty of high fibre, low potassium vegetables; drink plenty of water; and get a good 30 - 40 minutes of walking in once or twice a day. This will keep your heart rate up well, which is important.

Once again, discuss any changes you make to your daily diet and exercise regimen with your doctor(s) first. That is always very important. I wish you all my best Ramboar! Please keep us posted as to how things come along. Stay well and God bless. 😊👍🙏

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador]

Hi Ramboar,

All good thoughts below but mine are as follows:

Print out a copy of your labs checking off any areas which flag such as your creatinine as well as make a list of the foods you eat, exercise routines, water consumption and make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your overall health and how to improve it.

Your doctor should be your first line of information when labs are drawn and be the one to explain them to you.

He/ she may also make dietary suggestions based on your lab results and any other medical conditions which you may have such as diabetes, high blood pressure etc. The two of you may also discuss the possibility of a referral to a renal dietician who will make dietary suggestions based on your labs etc. which will be both nutritious and appetizing.

We will always support you, but it is the responsibility of the doctor to review and explain test results to you.

Please reach back and let us know what was said to you and your direction.

One of us will always reach back.

Bet