Just like any other process taking place in the body, the metabolism of muscles yields a by-product called creatinine. This particular waste product is eliminated by the kidneys, so it’s normal for it to be found in the urine. However, it’s not normal when there are high levels of creatinine in the urine as indicated by a laboratory test.
Experts say that a temporary increase in creatinine levels in the urine may be due to the intake of certain supplements and drugs. It may also happen because of the consumption of too much meat and other protein-rich foods. Making the muscles bigger through intense pumping of iron may also temporarily cause a surge in creatinine levels.
However, it is an entirely different story if the creatinine levels are abnormally high. The presence of too much creatinine in the urine may indicate long-term kidney disease or kidney damage. Sometimes it may be caused by a serious infection currently taking place. Recurrent illnesses can also increase creatinine levels in the urine excessively.
There are instances, too, when having abnormally high amounts of creatinine in the urine is due to reduced flow of blood in the kidneys. One usual cause is hypotension or low blood pressure. Dehydration may be the one to blame for it, too. Not drinking enough fluids or sweating a lot can certainly increase creatinine levels in the urine
Having high levels of creatinine in the urine commonly cause some symptoms. Some of them include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, frequent urination, dark-colored urine, reduced amount of urine, low-grade fever, shortness of breath, back pain, skin itching, and swelling in the feet and around the eyes.
It’s important to determine the underlying cause of having high levels of creatinine in the urine to prevent complications, such as further damage to the kidneys. For amounts of creatinine in the urine that is slightly elevated and temporary only, as clearly stated by a specialist, there are some home remedies available for it, such as:
Drinking More Water
As mentioned earlier, dehydration is one of the many reasons why there’s an increase of creatinine in the urine. The easiest solution for such is by consuming more water to increase urine output and the rate of flushing out waste products.
Having Green Tea
Other than helping to increase the total amount of fluids consumed per day, drinking green tea also supplies the body with toxin-fighting and creatinine-controlling antioxidants. It is a good idea for you to drink 2 to 3 cups of green tea daily if your doctor says your urine creatinine is slightly elevated.
Consuming Chamomile Tea
If you’re not a fan of green tea because of its taste and caffeine content, opt for chamomile tea instead. Thanks to the relaxing properties of chamomile, some of the symptoms of having high creatinine levels in the urine may be alleviated.
Making Corn Silk Tea
Because of its ability to increase urine output, corn silk tea is very good at lowering creatinine levels in the urine. Simply allow a couple of tablespoons of dried corn silk to steep in a cup of hot water for 15 minutes, then drink.
Adding Cinnamon in the Diet
There are many health problems that can be remedied naturally by cinnamon, and one of them is increased amounts of creatinine in the urine. Take advantage of the creatinine-lowering properties of cinnamon by consuming foods with it, or by regularly taking a cup of hot water with a teaspoon of cinnamon powder dissolved in it.
Employing Barley
It is said that barley helps cleanse and strengthen the kidneys. Aside from high creatinine, barley is also known to help deal with a handful of other problems that have something to do with elevated amounts of by-products in the urine.
Counting on Stinging Nettle
Traditional healers use stinging nettle for patients whose urine output is reduced, and this is why the herb can also be beneficial for individuals who have slightly elevated creatinine levels in the urine. Stinging nettle helps increase urine output, thus promoting the effective removal of excess impurities in the body such as creatinine.
