Does Creatine Damage Your Kidneys? UK Surgeon Explains Why Test Results May Look Misleading
Does Creatine Harm Kidneys? UK Surgeon Clarifies Why Test Results May Be Misleading
Many people who take creatine supplements worry that they may be harming their kidneys. According to UK-based surgeon and health educator Dr. Karan Rajan, the real issue is often misunderstood. Creatine itself does not damage the kidneys, he explains — but it can raise a blood marker called creatinine, which may appear abnormal in routine kidney function tests.
In a video shared on Instagram on December 4, Dr Rajan broke down how creatine use can lead to misleading blood test readings, why this happens, and what creatine users should keep in mind when undergoing routine health checks.
⭐ How Creatine Affects Kidney Function Tests
Dr Rajan explains that creatine supplementation can elevate creatinine, which is a natural waste product formed when the body breaks down creatine. Creatinine levels are commonly used in Kidney Function Tests (KFT) to help assess how well the kidneys are working.
He shared his own past test reports from 2024, a time when he was taking creatine regularly.
His blood test results showed:
- Creatinine levels were higher than usual
- eGFR — a commonly used kidney function calculation — appeared lower
These results suggested weaker kidney performance, even though he had no underlying health concerns.
This led him to explore why creatine users may receive confusing test outcomes.
⭐ Why Does This Happen?
Creatinine naturally increases when the body processes creatine. So, when someone takes creatine supplements, their creatinine levels may rise — not because the kidneys are damaged, but because the body has more creatine to break down.
Dr Rajan explains:
“The more creatine you have in your bloodstream, the more creatinine your body will make as a byproduct. This can make kidney function equations appear inaccurate.”
He notes that many standard kidney assessments rely heavily on creatinine levels, which is why the results can look misleading for people who supplement with creatine or consume high-protein diets.
⭐ A More Accurate Biomarker for Creatine Users
To get a clearer picture, Dr Rajan mentions a different test called Cystatin C, which may offer more accurate kidney function readings for people who take creatine.
He shared that after pausing creatine for a short period, his creatinine levels gradually returned to normal ranges, and follow-up tests — including a Cystatin C assessment performed three months later — helped confirm that his kidneys were functioning normally.
⭐ Key Takeaway From the Surgeon’s Explanation
Dr Rajan emphasises that:
- Creatine supplementation does not damage healthy kidneys
- Elevated creatinine levels in creatine users can lead to false alarms
- It is important to inform your doctor about any supplements you take
- Different tests may be needed for accurate results
His video highlights how awareness about supplements can help avoid confusion during routine health checks.
⭐ Important Reader Note
This article summarises the views expressed by a medical professional in a social media video.
It is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised health concerns.
⭐ Editorial Disclaimer
This report is based on user-generated social media content.
Nirmal News has not independently verified the medical claims and does not endorse them.
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