What causes low creatinine in women

Low creatinine levels in women are usually caused by physiological factors, mainly including increased blood volume during pregnancy, decreased muscle mass, malnutrition, hyperthyroidism, long-term vegetarianism, and other factors.

1. Pregnancy blood volume:

In the middle and late stages of pregnancy, the blood volume of pregnant women can increase by 40% -50%, and the blood dilution effect can lead to a relative decrease in creatinine concentration. This physiological change does not require special intervention, and creatinine levels will naturally rise after postpartum blood volume returns to normal. Regular monitoring of renal function indicators during pregnancy is sufficient.

2. Decreased muscle mass:

Women generally have lower muscle mass than men, and muscle atrophy caused by long-term lack of exercise or aging can reduce the source of creatinine production. Moderate resistance training such as squats and plank supports can increase muscle mass, and it is recommended to do 2-3 strength exercises per week. 3. Malnutrition: Insufficient protein intake can affect creatine metabolism, which is common in patients with excessive dieting or digestive and absorption disorders. It is recommended to consume 1-1.2 grams of high-quality protein per kilogram of body weight daily. Eggs, fish, and soy products are all good sources. Severe malnutrition requires nutritional assessment.

4. Hyperthyroidism:

Elevated metabolic rate in hyperthyroidism patients can accelerate creatinine breakdown, and may be accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations and excessive sweating. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed through five thyroid function tests, and commonly used therapeutic drugs include methimazole, propylthiouracil, etc., which should be taken under the guidance of an endocrinologist.

5. Long term vegetarianism:

Strict vegetarians lack animal protein intake, and insufficient creatine precursor substances can affect creatinine synthesis. Suggest increasing plant proteins such as soy protein isolate and quinoa in moderation, and supplementing creatine supplements if necessary. Regularly monitor the trend of creatinine changes.

For mild creatinine reduction without obvious symptoms, it is recommended to increase the intake of high-quality protein by adjusting the diet structure, combined with moderate strength training to enhance muscle mass. Daily consumption of whey protein, beef and other foods rich in branched chain amino acids can be increased to avoid long-term extreme dieting. If accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss and palpitations, or if creatinine levels remain below 30% of normal, it is necessary to complete thyroid and kidney function tests to exclude pathological factors. Pregnant women who experience a decrease in creatinine should pay attention to distinguishing it from pregnancy related physiological changes and avoid excessive intervention.