Creatinine Levels...

[GeeMoney]

Wondering what the other related issues are to a rise in my creatinine levels. I've had an increase over the summer and it's not from excessive exercise this time. I did have a bad flu in late September (non Covid) and wondering if that can affect your creatinine levels. Not aware that certain foods can cause this so thought I'd ask the group. Thanks in advance!

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador]

What level of CKD have you been diagnosed at? Many of us are on CKD diets and our eGFR can be effected by food types.

[GeeMoney in reply to orangecity41]

I have CKD stage 3a however it's not my GFR that I'm inquiring about. I am aware that GFR can absolutely be affected by the food you eat. It's my creatinine levels that have me a little puzzled and I'm not sure what it is that can affect that other than too much vigorous exercise.

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador in reply to GeeMoney]

Hi Gee Money,

Many factors besides exercise and excessive protein can play a role in your creatinine levels and they can connect to your GFR.

Time of test, hydration, changes in or additional medication such as antibiotics cardiovascular drugs, such as ACE inhibitors statins, and for some, diuretics.

As Orange City suggested, diet is important.

Have you spoken to your doctor or a dietician as to food suggestions geared to your labs at stage 3 CKD?

Can't stress enough that healthy diet which is low in sodium, ( 1200-2000mg per day) low protein, no red meats, processed foods and canned goods is key. Eat lots of vegetables such as cabbage, onion, peppers, cauliflower, green and yellow squash and fresh fruits such as apples, berries and pineapple. Watch dairy, potassium and phosphorous.

Avoid NASID pain relievers as Advil, Motrin and Aleve as well as dark colas. Drink plenty of water; particularly hydrate before labs.

Remember that every person is different with different body chemistry.

Keep a record of test results from one appointment to the other. If this still concerns you, give your doctor a call and ask about it.

Hope this helps.

Please feel free to write again; we're here to support.

Bet

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador in reply to GeeMoney]

Did you mean creatine level and not creatinine?

[rabbit01]

Increase in meat consumption can cause your creatinine to rise. Note though that so can a decline in your kidney function. Being a bit dehydrated when you had your blood test can also give a false high reading of creatinine.

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GeeMoney, I want to point out that GFR is calculated using creatinine level so there is a direct correlation. The more creatinine goes up, the more GFR goes down.