Concern Over Elevated Cystatine C Levels Linked to Protein Consumption?
Hello there, I’m a 27-year-old male and have been consuming approximately 1.7 grams of protein per kilogram of my body weight (around 0.77 grams per pound) daily to support my muscle-building efforts. Previously, I was taking in around 2 grams per kilogram (0.9 grams per pound) until I reduced my intake last summer following guidance from my doctor. I recently underwent some blood tests, and the results are as follows: - **Total Cholesterol:** 191 mg/dL (Optimal: less than 200) - **LDL Cholesterol:** 122 mg/dL (Ideal: less than 100) - **Cystatine C:** 0.91 mg/L (Reference range: 0.53 - 0.92) - **GFR (based on cystatine):** 101 mL/min (Normal: greater than 60) - **Creatinine:** 1.1 mg/dL (Reference range: 0.73 - 1.18) - **GFR (based on creatinine):** 94 (Normal: greater than 90) I acknowledge that my LDL levels are somewhat elevated, but I'm particularly concerned about my Cystatine C levels, which are nearing the upper limit of the normal range. Should this be a concern for my health? Thank you for your insights!
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 4:50:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your concerns about elevated cystatin C levels and LDL cholesterol are valid, and it's great that you’re being proactive about your health. Here's a summary of the key points:
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Cystatin C Levels: Your cystatin C level is 0.91 mg/L, which is at the upper limit of the normal range. This protein is a marker used to assess kidney function, and while being at the high end isn't immediately alarming, it should be monitored.
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LDL Cholesterol: Your LDL cholesterol is 122 mg/dL, which is above the ideal level but not drastically elevated. Managing this is important for your long-term cardiovascular health.
Understanding Cystatin C: Cystatin C helps indicate how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. Since your GFR (glomerular filtration rate) based on cystatin C is quite good at 101 mL/min, your kidney function appears to be normal. It is important to remember that cystatin C levels can fluctuate based on various factors, including muscle mass, inflammation, and diet.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Changes: Keep track of any symptoms or changes in your health. If you notice anything unusual like changes in urination, fatigue, or swelling, consider your next steps accordingly.
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Review Protein Intake: Since you’ve reduced your protein intake, which was initially high, ensure your diet is well balanced. Current guidelines suggest that protein needs can vary based on activity level, but sticking around 1.6 to 2.0 grams per kilogram is often sufficient for muscle-building without excessive protein.
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Diet Adjustments for Cholesterol: To address your LDL cholesterol:
- Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil) while reducing saturated and trans fats.
- Regular exercise can also help raise HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and lower LDL.
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Follow-up Testing: Plan to follow up with routine blood tests to monitor your cystatin C and cholesterol levels again in a few months.
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Stay Hydrated and Ensure Regular Check-ups: Maintaining hydration supports kidney function, and regular check-ups with your healthcare provider will help track these markers over time.
Taking these steps can help alleviate your concerns while promoting your overall health. If you have any specific symptoms or further questions, please feel free to ask. Remember, moderation is key!
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