Urea
Urea is a waste product formed in the liver when protein is broken down, and it leaves the body through the kidneys.
Urea is a waste product formed in the liver when protein is broken down, and it leaves the body through the kidneys. The level reflects how much protein you eat and break down, how much fluid you have, and how the kidneys clear waste. It is read together with creatinine. Retesting shows how it changes over time.
A high-protein diet, too little fluid, hard training and fasting tend to raise urea. Low protein intake, drinking a lot of fluid and pregnancy tend to lower it. Age and some medicines, such as cortisone, also affect it.
Foods that help
Drinking to thirst and a varied diet with a sensible amount of protein from fish, poultry, eggs, dairy and legumes, plus vegetables, fruit and whole grains.
Foods to limit
Very large amounts of protein, for example from protein supplements or a lot of red meat, and going long periods without enough fluid.
Track it through the year
One value is a snapshot. Following it up shows whether what you changed is working.
Related markers
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every result is checked against safe limits, and anything critical is escalated for follow-up.
See all 84 markers →