Creatinine levels normally stay elevated around 2.4 milligrams per liter of blood, the average being around two milligrams per liter.
While values at this level seem to vary widely among people, they generally are considered safe.
Creatinine is a naturally occurring substance in the body that aids in the conversion of proteins into sugars. When there are a number of proteins present in the body, it is called a catabolism. The body uses catabolism as a means to break down proteins and create energy. In order for the process to continue, amino acids are then broken down into simpler forms. Creatinine is a byproduct of this process.
Creatinine is thought to play an important role in blood sugar regulation as it aids in regulating levels of glucose. It also appears to have some influence on lipid levels.
There is also evidence that suggests that high levels of Creatinine can increase the risk of kidney disease, especially among those with pre-existing kidney function. Research studies suggest that these high levels of Creatinine may even increase the risk of heart attack.
Individuals who have had a kidney or heart attack are often concerned about the possible impact that high creatinine levels may have on their health. Many doctors recommend low levels of Creatinine in order to reduce the risk of these potential complications.
Because Creatinine may be related to kidney damage, many doctors advise against high Creatinine levels for those who have had a kidney or heart attack. However, in most cases, high levels can not be avoided. Doctors generally recommend that low levels of Creatinine be used if Creatinine is found in excess in the body, since Creatinine is excreted in urine and other waste products in very small quantities.
The normal Creatinine level in the blood is determined by a series of factors, including diet, physical activity, and the amount of creatinine in body fluids. Other risk factors include: age, gender, and weight.
The more active a person is, the more likely he or she is to maintain a normal Creatinine level.
If Creatinine is present in high levels, it may be advisable to avoid alcohol consumption, since the excess Creatinine can act as a toxin in the body. Also, if Creatinine levels are too high, doctors may suggest using a low protein diet to prevent Creatinine from accumulating in the body.
For most people, normal Creatinine levels should be maintained at about 0.8mg/dL. If Creatinine levels in the body rise above this level, then the body will begin to lose its ability to produce Creatinine and use protein as a substitute. The kidneys may have trouble eliminating Creatinine and may become overloaded. This can lead to kidney stones, a condition called renal tubular necrosis.
Kidneys that function properly will remove Creatinine from the body in large amounts, but they may be unable to do so in a timely manner. Overloading the kidneys can cause kidney damage and can lead to severe dehydration. Kidney damage can also cause kidney failure and death.
Creatinine can also be excreted in urine and other waste products, but it will take time for Creatinine to pass through the kidneys and is excreted in urine. To keep Creatinine levels low, doctors often recommend limiting high doses of Creatinine supplements, drinking more water, and reducing physical activity.
Creatinine is thought to help regulate the levels of cholesterol and other hormones. Researchers have found that those suffering from hypertension may benefit from increasing the amount of Creatinine in their diets. In general, Creatinine helps to control blood pressure by increasing levels of renin (a hormone that helps to increase the amount of renin-binding substances in the bloodstream). Renin is also important in keeping the blood from acidifying.
There is no evidence to indicate that Creatinine supplements are harmful for most people. However, it is important that Creatinine be taken only under the supervision of a doctor.