Albumin
Albumin is the most abundant protein in blood plasma, made by the liver. It maintains blood pressure inside vessels (oncotic pressure), transports hormones, drugs, and fatty acids, and reflects nutritional and liver status.
Normal Range
3.5–5.0 g/dL
Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Always interpret your result in context with your doctor.
Why is Albumin measured?
Albumin is tested to assess liver function, protein status, kidney leakage of protein (when measured in urine), and overall nutritional state. Low albumin is also a marker of disease severity in many illnesses.
High Albumin means…
Elevated albumin almost always reflects dehydration — true overproduction is rare. After rehydration the value normalises.
Low Albumin means…
Low albumin (hypoalbuminaemia) is common and signals one of: liver disease (reduced production), kidney disease (loss in urine), malnutrition, chronic inflammation, or fluid retention. It is associated with poorer outcomes across many illnesses.
Symptoms associated with abnormal Albumin
When Albumin is high:
- Often signs of dehydration: thirst, dry mouth, low urine output
When Albumin is low:
- Swelling in legs, ankles, abdomen (oedema, ascites)
- Fatigue
- Slow wound healing
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Muscle wasting
How to improve your Albumin
- Adequate dietary protein (eggs, fish, dairy, legumes) supports albumin production if intake is the issue.
- Treat the underlying cause — albumin is a marker of disease, not a target to supplement directly.
- Hydration alone can normalise mildly high albumin from dehydration.
Frequently asked questions about Albumin
Can low albumin cause swelling?
Yes. Albumin maintains the oncotic pressure that keeps fluid inside blood vessels. When albumin drops below ~2.5 g/dL, fluid leaks into tissues, causing leg swelling and abdominal ascites.
Does diet affect albumin?
Severe protein malnutrition lowers albumin, but the change is slow because the body's albumin pool is large. Most low albumin in the developed world is due to underlying disease, not diet.
Medical Sources
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your individual results.