Creatinine is a waste product that is produced by the muscles when they break down creatine phosphate. Creatine phosphate is a substance that helps to provide energy for muscle contractions. Creatinine is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and excreted in the urine.
High creatinine levels can be a sign of kidney damage. If you have high creatinine levels, it is important to avoid certain foods that can further damage your kidneys.
Here are some foods to avoid if creatinine is high:
Processed meats: Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, are high in sodium and saturated fat. These foods can put a strain on the kidneys and worsen kidney damage.
Red meat: Red meat is also high in saturated fat and can damage the kidneys.
Organ meats: Organ meats, such as liver and kidneys, are very high in phosphorus. Phosphorus can build up in the blood and damage the kidneys.
Shellfish: Shellfish, such as shrimp, lobster, and crab, are high in purines. Purines can break down into creatinine, which can further damage the kidneys.
High-protein foods: High-protein foods, such as red meat, poultry, and fish, can put a strain on the kidneys. It is important to limit your intake of high-protein foods if you have high creatinine levels.
Salty foods: Salty foods can raise blood pressure, which can damage the kidneys. It is important to limit your intake of salty foods if you have high creatinine levels.
In addition to avoiding these foods, it is also important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This type of diet can help to support kidney function and reduce the risk of further damage.
Here are some tips for following a healthy diet if you have high creatinine levels:
Drink plenty of fluids. Fluids help to flush creatinine out of the body. Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are low in protein and phosphorus and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help to support kidney function and improve overall health.
Choose whole grains over refined grains. Whole grains are more nutritious than refined grains and they can help to lower cholesterol levels.
Choose lean protein sources. Lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and beans are low in saturated fat and calories.
Limit saturated and unhealthy fats. Saturated and unhealthy fats can damage the kidneys.
If you have high creatinine levels, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help you to develop a treatment plan that includes diet and lifestyle changes.
Here are some additional tips that may help to reduce creatinine levels:
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
Exercise regularly. Exercise helps to improve kidney function and reduce the risk of further damage. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Manage stress. Stress can damage the kidneys. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your creatinine levels and protect your kidney function.
