Albumin

Albumin, the main blood plasma protein produced by the liver, maintains colloid oncotic pressure to keep fluid in vessels, helping regulate blood volume and prevent edema. It transports hormones, fatty acids, bilirubin, many drugs and metal ions, acts as an antioxidant and pH buffer, and serves as an amino acid reserve for tissues.

Normal serum albumin for adults is generally about 3.5–5.0 g/dL (35–50 g/L). Laboratories may report slightly different reference ranges and use either g/dL or g/L. Low albumin can indicate malnutrition, liver or kidney disease, inflammation, or chronic illness; high levels are less common but can reflect dehydration. Always interpret results with clinical context and your clinician.

To raise serum albumin, ensure adequate high-quality protein and calories (eggs, dairy, lean meat, fish, legumes), treat underlying causes (liver disease, inflammation, infections, nephrotic syndrome), correct malabsorption and address malnutrition. Nutritional supplements or oral protein powders may help under medical guidance. Avoid excess alcohol and follow physician-directed treatment and monitoring to resolve conditions that suppress albumin production.

Drinking water can temporarily dilute urine and lower measured urinary albumin concentration, potentially reducing false‑positive results. It does not increase serum albumin or cure kidney disease; persistent or clinically significant albuminuria reflects underlying kidney or systemic problems and requires medical evaluation and treatment. Don’t rely on hydration alone to normalize abnormal urine tests—follow-up testing and physician advice are important.

Albumin is produced mainly by hepatocytes in the liver. It’s the most abundant plasma protein, maintaining colloid (oncotic) pressure and transporting hormones, drugs, fatty acids, bilirubin, and ions. Low albumin levels occur in liver disease, malnutrition, inflammation, or kidney loss and are used as a clinical marker of nutritional and hepatic status.

Yes—albumin influences blood pressure by maintaining plasma oncotic pressure and intravascular volume. Low albumin reduces oncotic pressure, causing fluid to shift into tissues, contributing to edema and potentially hypotension. Conversely, raising plasma albumin (e.g., infusion) can expand circulating volume and increase blood pressure in hypovolemic or hypoalbuminemic patients. Effects depend on underlying fluid status and disease.