What are the reasons for low creatinine and urea levels

Low creatinine and urea levels are usually associated with factors such as insufficient protein intake, decreased muscle mass, abnormal liver function, metabolic disorders, or excessive water intake.

1. Protein deficiency:

Long term low protein diet or malnutrition can lead to reduced creatinine and urea production. Creatinine is a metabolic product of muscle, while urea is a final product of protein breakdown, and their levels are directly related to protein intake. Vegetarians, dieting individuals, or patients with digestive and absorption disorders may have low indicators and need to adjust their diet structure to increase the intake of high-quality protein such as eggs, fish, and soy products.

2. Insufficient muscle mass:

Muscle atrophy, long-term bed rest, or muscle loss in the elderly can reduce creatinine levels. Creatinine is mainly produced by the metabolism of phosphocreatine in skeletal muscle, and its production decreases when muscle mass decreases. Moderate resistance training can increase muscle mass, but pathological factors such as muscle malnutrition need to be ruled out.

3. Abnormal liver function:

Severe liver diseases such as cirrhosis can affect urea synthesis. The liver is the main site of the urea cycle, and when liver function is impaired, the ability to metabolize ammonia into urea decreases. This type of patient often presents with symptoms such as jaundice and ascites, and requires further evaluation through liver function tests and imaging.

4. Metabolic disorders:

Endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism or hypopituitarism may accelerate metabolism. Hyperthyroidism patients have vigorous protein catabolism, which may lead to increased urea nitrogen excretion; Hypofunction of the pituitary gland affects the secretion of growth hormone, indirectly reducing muscle synthesis. Diagnosis should be confirmed by combining five thyroid function tests and hormone level testing.

5. Water retention dilution:

Excessive drinking water or abnormal secretion of antidiuretic hormone will cause hemodilution. Drinking a large amount of water in the short term may temporarily reduce creatinine and urea concentrations, but usually has no pathological significance. The pathological retention of water and sodium caused by nephrotic syndrome and heart failure should be excluded, and the changes of urine specific gravity and electrolyte should be observed.

It is recommended to regularly monitor kidney function indicators, maintain a balanced diet with 1-1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, and engage in moderate aerobic exercise and strength training. Individuals with abnormal liver function should limit high ammonia foods such as animal organs, and patients with thyroid diseases should ensure sufficient calorie intake. When there are persistent abnormal indicators or symptoms such as fatigue and edema, it is necessary to complete urine routine, renal ultrasound and other examinations to exclude organic diseases.