What eGFR tells you
Markers related to kidney filtration and waste clearance. Clinicians use them to consider kidney function over time, alongside other information.
Which Honed panels include eGFR
eGFR is measured in the Essential Panel and Performance Panel. Every sample is collected at a pathology collection centre and processed at a NATA-accredited laboratory against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure online report.
Why eGFR matters
Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is a calculated estimate of kidney filtering capacity, derived from serum creatinine, age, sex, and race. eGFR is more accurate than creatinine alone for assessing kidney function, particularly in athletes with high muscle mass. eGFR directly estimates the volume of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute per unit of body surface area. It is the standard marker used clinically to stage chronic kidney disease.
The range explained
Low levels
Low eGFR (below 60 mL/min/1.73m²) indicates reduced kidney filtration and warrants investigation and monitoring by a clinician.
Normal range
Reference range: above 60 mL/min/1.73m², with optimal eGFR above 90 mL/min/1.73m². This represents adequate kidney filtration capacity.
High levels
eGFR above 90 mL/min/1.73m² is normal and expected in young, healthy individuals.
What affects eGFR
- Training: Training does not directly affect eGFR. Dehydration can acutely affect eGFR.
- Nutrition: Adequate hydration and moderate protein intake support kidney function. Excessive protein intake (particularly chronic high intakes) may stress kidneys, though this is debated in the literature.
- Sleep: Sleep supports kidney function.
- Stress: Chronic stress can affect kidney function.
When to retest
Every 12 months for general health.
Why athletes care
Athletes monitor eGFR to ensure kidney function is adequate; eGFR is more accurate than creatinine alone in muscular athletes.
Related kidney markers
FAQ
What does the eGFR blood test measure?
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, a calculation used to estimate kidney filtering capacity. It is tracked over time and interpreted by a clinician.
Which Honed Health panels include eGFR?
eGFR is included in the Essential and Performance panels.
What unit is eGFR measured in?
eGFR is reported in mL/min/1.73m², measured at NATA-accredited laboratories against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure report.