Creatinine: Understanding Blood Levels, Causes & Kidney Health

Creatinine is a waste product that is produced by the body when it breaks down muscle tissue. Normally, creatinine is removed from the blood by the kidneys and excreted in urine. Creatinine levels in the blood can be affected by various factors, including muscle mass, diet, and kidney function.

The term creatinine comes from the Greek word, kreas, which means flesh, meat. Creatinine is a nitrogenous compound which results from the interaction between muscle creatine and water.