In CKD stage 5, high creatinine and potassium levels often occur. Well, are these levels related to progression of their diseases? What can they do to control normalize these levels?

Meaning of high creatinine and potassium levels

Creatinine is a metabolic waste of creatine, which can supply energy to our muscles and brains. It is usually used as an indicator of kidney function. When more than 50% kidney function is lost, kidneys will fail to excrete this metabolic waste effectively, so this level will elevate.

Potassium is an important electrolyte in our bodies. Normally, we take this electrolyte from foods, and some of them will take part in our physiological activity, and excess potassium will be discharged through urine. However, for CKD stage 5 patients, their kidneys can’t function well to excrete them, so patients will have high potassium level.

How to relieve this condition through diet?

Right kind of fruits and vegetables

To reduce creatinine, patients should limit the intake of creatine, which is mainly found in animal products. Thus, on the basic of enough protein supply, patients should take more vegetables and fruits so as to reduce creatinine level.

However, when patients choose fruits and vegetable, they should be cautious of potassium content, since many fruits and vegetable are rich in this electrolyte.

More water consumption

If patients don’t have high blood pressure and swelling, they can drink more water to help them discharge these substances. If patients have severe high blood pressure or swelling, they should pay attention to their water consumption. Any questions? You can contact our Online Doctor for help.

In addition, other dietary changes are also necessary:

1. Low salt intake.

2. Limited protein intake.

3. Be strict on phosphorus consumption.

4. Take more foods rich in vitamins and minerals.

In CKD stage 5, a reasonable diet is quite important. If patients want to control high creatinine and potassium levels, they can follow the above advice.