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BUN refers to blood urea nitrogen. Urea is one of the primary metabolites from protein digestion and tissue turnover. In a healthy system, urea is then filtered out of the blood by the kidneys and expelled from the body via urination. (source)
Low BUN levels can be influenced by physiological factors related to liver and kidney function, as these organs are involved in the production and elimination of urea. Nutritionally, insufficient protein intake can contribute to lower BUN levels, as urea is a byproduct of protein metabolism. (source)
Prioritize high-quality protein: Low protein intake has been shown to negatively affect serum BUN levels. (source) Urea is the primary metabolite derived from dietary protein intake and tissue protein turnover, thus low BUN levels would be a result of low protein intake. (source) Recommendation: Eat 0.8 to 1.0 g of protein per pound of body weight per day.
One serving examples: Eggs (3 large eggs), Chicken Breast (3.5 oz), Beef (lean cuts) (3.5 oz), Salmon (3 oz), Pork (lean cuts) (3.5 oz), Tofu (3.5 oz)
Avoid alcohol: Alcohol consumption has been associated with low BUN levels. (source) Alcohol consumption contributes to a reduction in the body’s ability to convert amino nitrogen into urea. (source) Recommendation: Monitor alcohol intake. Try to limit consumption to one or two drinks daily, with the goal of less than three per week.
Supplement with a quality protein source: Low protein intake has been shown to negatively affect serum BUN levels. (source) Urea is the primary metabolite derived from dietary protein intake and tissue protein turnover, thus low BUN levels would be a result of low protein intake. (source) Recommendation: Supplement with 20 to 40 g of quality protein with a goal of consuming 0.8 to 1.2 g of protein per pound of body weight per day.
Elevated BUN levels can result from physiological factors related to kidney function and hydration status. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products like urea from the bloodstream, and dehydration can concentrate urea levels in the blood. From a nutritional perspective, excessive protein intake can also contribute to higher BUN levels, as protein metabolism generates urea as a byproduct. (source, source)
Prioritize proper hydration: Elevated BUN levels have been associated with dehydration. (source) BUN is a measure of the amount of nitrogen in blood from the waste product urea, found in the liver and excreted in urine. Dehydration causes serum levels to decrease, increasing BUN concentrations. (source) Recommendation: Drink at least 0.5 fl oz of water per pound body weight per day.
Avoid smoking: Smokers have been shown to have higher BUN concentrations than nonsmokers. (source) Smoking is associated with renal function deterioration mediated by elevated homocysteine levels. (source) As kidney function diminishes, BUN concentrations rise. Recommendation: If a smoker, take the steps to quit. If not, avoid areas where secondhand smoke is present.
Supplement with a vitamin B complex: Low levels of vitamins B1 and B2 have been associated with high BUN concentrations. (source) Supplementation with vitamin B complex helps suppress oxidative pathways that hinder kidney health and function. (source) Supporting kidney health helps to lower BUN concentrations. Recommendation: Supplement with a vitamin B complex that has at least 50% of daily recommendations for each B vitamin.
