In short
- eGFR estimates how well your kidneys filter blood.
- Creatinine is a waste product the kidneys remove. eGFR is calculated from it.
- eGFR 90+ is normal; below 60 for a longer time points to kidney disease.
- You protect them with hydration, controlled blood pressure and sugar, less salt.
- A persistently low eGFR or a raised creatinine belongs with a doctor.
The kidneys quietly clean your blood. They filter it several times every day. Damage does not hurt for a long time. That is why a blood report is one of the best ways to monitor kidney function early.
What eGFR and creatinine are
Creatinine is made in the muscles and removed through the kidneys. When filtering weakens, it builds up in the blood. From creatinine (plus age and sex) we calculate eGFR, the estimated filtration rate. It is the most practical indicator of kidney function.
What your values mean
| eGFR (mL/min/1.73 m²) | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 90 or more | normal function |
| 60–89 | mildly reduced (often normal, without other signs) |
| below 60 (≥3 months) | chronic kidney disease — see a doctor |
Source: KDIGO. Creatinine can be temporarily raised by dehydration, intense exercise or a large muscle mass.
How to protect your kidneys naturally
1) Good hydration
Enough water supports filtering. For most people, drinking to thirst and light-coloured urine is enough.
2) Controlled blood pressure and sugar
High blood pressure and sugar are the main drivers of kidney damage. Keeping them under control is the strongest protection.
3) Less salt and care with medicines
Cut down on salt. Use painkillers (NSAIDs) with care, because heavy use puts a strain on the kidneys.
A good approach: follow eGFR over time. One value is a snapshot. The trend tells you whether your kidneys are stable.
How Blood Lab 360 helps you with this
We explain eGFR and creatinine in the context of your blood pressure and sugar. We show whether your kidneys are stable and track the trend over time.
Frequently asked questions
What does eGFR on my report mean?
An estimate of how efficiently your kidneys filter blood. 90+ is normal; below 60 for more than three months points to chronic kidney disease.
What does a raised creatinine mean?
Often weaker kidney filtering. It can also be temporarily raised by dehydration or a large muscle mass.
How do I protect my kidneys?
With good hydration, controlled blood pressure and sugar, less salt, and care with painkillers.
