Albumin: A Vital Protein for Liver & Kidney Function

Albumin is a protein synthesised by the liver and found abundantly in the blood plasma.‍Albumin acts as a carrier for many important molecules in the bloodstream, ensuring they reach their intended destinations and supporting overall bodily functions.

Albumin levels are closely linked to healthspan as they serve as a marker of nutritional status, liver function, and overall health.‍Monitoring albumin levels can help identify nutritional deficiencies and health conditions early, allowing for appropriate interventions to optimise health and extend healthspan.

Eating a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein sources, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy products, can help increase albumin production. Limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding hepatotoxic drugs, and managing conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease can support proper liver function, ensuring adequate albumin synthesis. Addressing underlying conditions such as diabetes and hypertension can help reduce kidney damage and prevent the loss of albumin in the urine.

Elevated albumin levels are uncommon but may be seen in conditions like dehydration, where there is a reduction in plasma volume, concentrating the albumin in the blood. It can also be a sign of high-protein diets, although this is usually not clinically significant.‍Low albumin levels can indicate several health issues. It is commonly associated with liver disease (such as cirrhosis or hepatitis), where the liver’s ability to produce albumin is impaired.