Why is eGFR important for your Healthspan?
eGFR values are central to assessing kidney function, which is fundamental for maintaining Healthspan. Healthy kidneys are essential for filtering waste products, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, and supporting overall bodily regulation. A decline in eGFR can signal progressive kidney impairment, potentially leading to a buildup of toxins and increased risk for chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular complications, and other health issues that can significantly impact long-term vitality and quality of life. Monitoring eGFR helps in the early identification of kidney changes and guides strategies to preserve kidney function.
What is eGFR?
The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a calculated measure that assesses the efficiency of your kidneys in filtering waste products from your blood. It is derived using a formula that typically incorporates your blood creatinine levels (a waste product from muscle), along with your age and sex. Some formulas may also consider other markers like cystatin C. The glomeruli are tiny filtering units within the kidneys, and the GFR represents the volume of blood filtered by these glomeruli per minute. A higher eGFR generally indicates better kidney function, while a lower eGFR suggests that the kidneys are not filtering as effectively. This measurement is considered the best overall indicator of how well your kidneys are working to clear waste from your system.
How do we take action?
If eGFR values suggest reduced kidney function, one should consult with a healthcare provider to investigate the underlying causes and discuss management strategies. Actions often involve rigorously managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, as these are common contributors to kidney damage. Lifestyle interventions, including adopting a kidney-friendly diet, ensuring proper hydration, avoiding excessive protein intake, and being cautious with certain medications that can affect kidney function, are also important. Regular monitoring of eGFR is crucial for tracking kidney health and allowing for timely interventions to protect kidney function and support overall Healthspan.
Additional Sources
1. Levey, A. S., Inker, L. A., & Coresh, J. (2014). GFR estimation: from physiology to public health. American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation, 63(5), 820–834. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.ajkd.2013.12.006
2. Filler, G., & Lee, M. (2018). Educational review: measurement of GFR in special populations. Pediatric nephrology (Berlin, Germany), 33(11), 2037–2046. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00467-017-3852-8
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