Is a urea to creatinine ratio of 0.06 normal?
A urine creatinine level of 0.06 refers to a concentration of 0.06 mmol/L, which is generally considered abnormal.
The normal range for urine creatinine is 3.2–7.1 mmol/L in adults and 1.8–6.5 mmol/L in children. Creatinine is a metabolic byproduct of protein metabolism. A value as low as 0.06 mmol/L may indicate physiological factors such as excessive dieting for weight loss, being underweight, or insufficient protein intake, as well as conditions like chronic gastrointestinal diseases that impair protein absorption. Low creatinine levels may also be associated with malnutrition, extreme dieting, long-term vegetarianism, or advanced stages of severe malignant diseases.
It is recommended to increase daily intake of high-protein foods such as soy products, fish, and eggs. However, if the patient has impaired liver or kidney function, protein intake should be reduced. In such cases, patients can consume fresh vegetables and seasonal fruits such as watermelon, bitter gourd, and loofah.
In addition, low urine creatinine or low creatinine levels overall can weaken the body's immune defenses, increasing susceptibility to various infections. It is important to identify the underlying cause early and initiate appropriate treatment.