17/06/2026
A recent blood test flagged me as having potential kidney issues.
After further investigation, it turned out to be a false positive.
As a strength athlete, this is something worth being aware of. If you carry a significant amount of muscle mass, train hard, and take creatine, markers such as creatinine and eGFR can sometimes suggest reduced kidney function when there isn't actually a problem.
If you're ever in a similar position, don't just accept a single number at face value. Ask about:
• Urine ACR (Albumin:Creatinine Ratio) – ideally less than 3 mg/mmol
• Urine protein levels
• Cystatin C / Cystatin C eGFR – often a more accurate measure in muscular individuals
Athletes regularly build and break down muscle tissue. That process, combined with higher muscle mass and creatine supplementation, can affect certain blood markers and potentially lead to unnecessary concern if the full picture isn't considered.
The lesson here isn't to ignore abnormal results. It's to make sure you're asking the right questions and getting the right tests before jumping to conclusions.
Always investigate. Always verify. Don't panic over a single blood marker.
