Creatinine is a waste product from your muscles filtered by your kidneys. Your creatinine level directly indicates how well your kidneys function.
Normal values
Men: 60-110 umol/L. Women: 45-90 umol/L. The difference is due to average muscle mass differences. Athletes may have slightly higher values without kidney problems.
Too high
Reduced kidney function (most concerning), dehydration, high muscle mass, intense exercise, very high protein intake or certain medications.
eGFR: calculated kidney function
eGFR corrects creatinine for age and sex. Above 90: normal. 60-89: mildly reduced. 30-59: moderately reduced (needs investigation). Below 30: severely reduced.
Frequently asked questions
Can strength training raise creatinine?
Yes, due to higher muscle mass and temporary muscle cell damage. This is physiological, not kidney damage.
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