Can Creatine Levels Fluctuate? | Exercise.com Learn: Your Fitness Business Resource

Can Creatine Levels Fluctuate?

Tyler Spraul is the director of UX and the head trainer for Exercise.com. He has his Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medicine and is an NSCA-certified strength and conditioning specialist. He is a former All-American soccer player and still coaches soccer today. In his free time, he enjoys reading, learning, and living the dad life. He has been featured in Shape, Healthline, HuffPost, Women's...

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UPDATED: Aug 25, 2020

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  • The levels of creatine in your body will change based on many factors, including diet, exercise, medications, and overall stress levels.
  • The creatinine levels of the body are a direct result of your overall muscle mass.
  • Symptoms of elevated creatinine include dehydration, difficulty breathing, confusion, and extreme fatigue.

Yes, creatine levels can fluctuate.

The levels of creatine in your body will change based on many factors, including diet, exercise, medications, and overall stress levels.

Creatine is a molecule found within the body and is developed simply by the food that you consume. This food turns into energy as it metabolizes. Creatinine is made through the breakdown of the creatine, and it then travels to your kidneys through the bloodstream. Extraordinary high levels of creatinine can be a major health concern and would need to immediately be treated by a health care professional.

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Is Muscle Mass Determined by the Body’s Creatinine Levels?

Yes, the creatinine levels of the body are a direct result of your overall muscle mass. Traditionally, creatinine levels in a man are higher than creatinine levels in a woman. The primary reason for this is the amount of muscle mass in a man is greater than in a woman.

Other direct factors related to creatinine levels include your age and your body weight. The older you get, the lower your overall level of creatinine. In addition, if you are extremely overweight, your level of creatinine will be lower as well.

This occurs mainly because muscle mass decreases with age. The humans with the lowest levels of creatinine are infants, but that is simply because of their overall size.

Does Creatinine Have an Effect on Kidney Function?

The functions of the kidneys are to get rid of the waste that your body cannot process and needs to dispose of. Kidneys that are functioning at a healthy level will filter about 2 quarts or more of waste and extra water every day. The waste that the kidney disposes of includes excess creatinine, which is disposed of through urine.

What Are the Normal Levels of Creatinine Within the Human Body?

The typical levels of creatinine in a healthy adult depend on several factors, including age, gender, and activity levels. Traditionally, the average level of creatinine in a man is about 1 to 2 grams. For women, the average levels of creatinine are only slightly lower, ranging from about half a gram to one gram.

These levels are pretty standard, and will only stray when there is a major health concern. There are laboratory tests available that can measure the total levels of creatinine in the body.

What Are the Different Types of Tests That I Can Take to Measure My Creatinine Levels?

Two different laboratory tests can be performed to find out what your creatinine level is. The first is known as the BUN exam, which can determine creatinine levels by measuring both the creatinine levels in your body.

This test will let you know if your kidneys are functioning properly or not. Usually, the higher your BUN score the more susceptible you will be to becoming dehydrated.

The second kind of test that can be performed is the clearance test. This test is widely considered the most effective in determining whether or not there are any kidney problems at play. Certain samples must be taken over 24 hours to conduct this test.

What Are Some Causes of Higher Levels of Creatinine?

There are many reasons that your creatinine level may rise above normal. Some of these include taking certain prescription medications, having high blood pressure, having diabetes, or if you have kidney disease.

Kidney disease is often the most common reason for elevated levels of creatinine. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, then the body is not able to get rid of the excess creatinine. If this occurs, it could eventually lead to kidney failure, possible dialysis, or the need to have a kidney transplant.

High blood pressure is one of the most common causes of kidney disease, as is diabetes. If you have either of these conditions, it is best to monitor yourself to keep the conditions at a manageable level.

You may also cause a higher level of creatinine in your body if you are loading creatine supplements. This is something to watch out for. Creatine supplements are not regulated by the FDA and may vary greatly in quality.

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What Are the Symptoms of a Rise in Creatinine?

Symptoms of elevated creatinine include dehydration, difficulty breathing, confusion, and extreme fatigue. It is important to note that having these conditions do not necessarily mean that you have a problem or a disease.

You may not have any of these symptoms and still have kidney disease. It is always best to see a doctor if you have any concerns.

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