How to Reduce Creatinine Level?
Learn effective ways to lower high creatinine levels naturally through diet, hydration, and lifestyle changes. Discover tips to support kidney health and improve overall well-being.
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Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Creatinine is a waste product produced by your muscles during normal activity. It is filtered out of your blood by your kidneys and removed from your body through urine. High creatinine levels in the blood may indicate that your kidneys are not functioning properly. If you’ve been told that your creatinine levels are high. There are ways to manage and reduce them with simple lifestyle changes and medical guidance.
What is Creatinine?
Creatinine is a natural byproduct of muscle metabolism. The more muscle mass you have, the more creatinine your body produces. Healthy kidneys filter creatinine efficiently, keeping its levels stable in your blood.
Normal Creatinine Levels
Men: 0.7 to 1.3 mg/d
Women: 0.6 to 1.1 mg/dL
Children: Lower than adults (varies with age)
Higher levels may suggest kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or other health issues.
Symptoms of High Creatinine Levels
Some people may not notice symptoms until levels are very high. Common symptoms include:
Fatigue
Swelling in legs, ankles, or face
Shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Changes in urine output (too much or too little)
Confusion
Consult Top Nephrologist
Causes of High Creatinine Levels
Several factors can contribute to elevated creatinine, including:
Kidney disease or damage: Impaired kidneys can't filter creatinine effectively, leading to higher levels.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water concentrates creatinine in the blood.
High-protein diet: Excessive intake of red meat can raise creatinine levels.
Intense exercise: Heavy workouts can temporarily boost creatinine due to muscle breakdown.
Certain medications: Drugs like NSAIDs or some antibiotics may affect kidney function.
Urinary tract issues: Infections or blockages can disrupt waste removal and raise creatinine.
How to Reduce Creatinine Levels Naturally?
If your creatinine levels are high, these home remedies may help:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys flush out waste, including creatinine. Aim for 8-10 glasses a day, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
2. Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet
Reduce protein intake especially red meat, dairy, and eggs.
Limit salt to avoid high blood pressure, which strains kidneys.
Choose fresh fruits & vegetables, except high-potassium ones if advised.
Avoid processed foods, as they contain hidden salts and additives.
3. Exercise Moderately: Intense workouts can temporarily raise creatinine. Opt for light to moderate exercise like walking, yoga, or swimming.
4. Manage Blood Pressure & Diabetes: High BP and uncontrolled diabetes can damage kidneys. Follow your doctor’s advice on medications, diet, and lifestyle changes.
5. Avoid NSAIDs & Certain Supplements: Painkillers like ibuprofen can harm kidneys. Some herbal supplements (e.g., creatine for muscle building) may also increase creatinine. Always check with your doctor before taking new supplements.
6. Try Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies may help, but always consult a doctor first:
Chamomile tea may support kidney function.
Nettle leaf tea is believed to help flush toxins.
Cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If lifestyle changes don’t lower your creatinine levels, or if you experience:
Severe fatigue
Swelling in limbs
Difficulty urinating
High blood pressure
You may need medical tests to check kidney function and consult a specialist.
Conclusion
High creatinine levels may indicate underlying kidney issues, but with timely intervention and the right approach, they can often be managed effectively. A balanced diet, proper hydration, and regular monitoring play a key role in supporting kidney function. Early detection combined with healthy lifestyle changes can slow progression and improve overall well-being. It's important to stay informed and consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.
Consult Top Nephrologist
Consult Top Nephrologist
Dr. Hareesha Babu K
Nephrologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Nephrology),FASN, FRCP(Glasg), FRCP (Edin)
Bangalore
Kidney & Hypertension Care, Bangalore
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Kity Sarkar
Nephrologist
15 Years • MBBS,MD(Genl. Med.), DrNB(NEPHROLOGY)
Kolkata
Dr. Kity Sarkar's Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. S Bipin Kumar
Nephrologist
13 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM, Nephrology
Rajamahendravaram
SG KIDNEY CARE, Rajamahendravaram
Dr. Luvdeep Dogra
Nephrologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (NEPHORLOGY)
Jaipur
Dr Dogras Health Clinic, Jaipur
Dr. Govardhan Gupta
Nephrologist
15 Years • MBBS, DNB General Medicine, DrNB Nephrology
Mumbai
Oscar Superspeciality Hospital, Mumbai
Consult Top Nephrologist
Dr. Hareesha Babu K
Nephrologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Nephrology),FASN, FRCP(Glasg), FRCP (Edin)
Bangalore
Kidney & Hypertension Care, Bangalore
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Kity Sarkar
Nephrologist
15 Years • MBBS,MD(Genl. Med.), DrNB(NEPHROLOGY)
Kolkata
Dr. Kity Sarkar's Clinic, Kolkata
Dr. S Bipin Kumar
Nephrologist
13 Years • MBBS, MD General Medicine, DM, Nephrology
Rajamahendravaram
SG KIDNEY CARE, Rajamahendravaram
Dr. Luvdeep Dogra
Nephrologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (NEPHORLOGY)
Jaipur
Dr Dogras Health Clinic, Jaipur
Dr. Govardhan Gupta
Nephrologist
15 Years • MBBS, DNB General Medicine, DrNB Nephrology
Mumbai
Oscar Superspeciality Hospital, Mumbai