How Should People with High Creatinine Levels Eat

Chronic high serum creatinine levels generally indicate poor kidney function and may also result from dehydration or the breakdown of muscle fibers that release myoglobin in the bloodstream. Dietary changes along with medical intervention can help lower serum creatinine levels.

Foods highest in creatine, which cause an increase in the production of creatinine, come from animal-based sources. Wild game, including meat from venison, alligator, duck, geese and wild turkeys, are excessively high in creatine and should be eliminated from your diet completely if you have kidney disease. Farmed poultry, beef, dairy and fish are also plentiful sources of protein but you can consume these sparingly to prevent nutrient deficiency. The average recommended daily allowance of protein for healthy adults ranges from 50 to 100 g per day. Limit daily protein to 40 to 50 g per day or as otherwise advised by your physician to reduce serum creatinine levels.

Keep track of your daily protein intake with knowledge of the amount in each serving size of your favorite foods. A 1-oz. serving of lean beef, chicken, pork or fish contains 7 to 14 g of protein. Dairy foods such as whole, skim or low-fat milk, ice cream and yogurt yield 4 g of protein per 1/2 cup serving. Cheese products have slightly higher amounts of protein, with 7 g per 1-oz. serving. Read product labels for exact amount based on serving size.

Monitor your protein intake but also adhere to a balanced diet. A low-protein and kidney-friendly breakfast may include one half cup of orange juice, two slices of wheat toast with jelly and apple slices. For lunch eat a sandwich containing a 1-oz. serving of baked chicken, one tomato slice and lettuce leaf on white bread, plus a side of canned peaches with a lemon-lime beverage. Dinner can include a 3-oz. grilled steak, small baked potato and a side of green beans. Eat snacks in between meals to sustain energy. A fruit cup, pineapple slices or celery sticks dipped with peanut butter maintain nutrition but help lower creatinine levels.

If you want to get a specific food table, you are welcomed to send us an email to doctornickzhang@hotmail.com, or you can leave us a message. Also only the low-protein diet is not enough to treat high creatinine levels, the key is to make kidneys go back to work normally again.