Diabetes is a health condition that affects a person’s blood sugar levels. One of the potential complications of diabetes is kidney disease. Diet can play an important role in controlling both of these conditions. Limiting certain foods and adding others can help an individual maintain a good overall health status.
A potential long-term complication of diabetes is diabetic nephropathy, which is a type of chronic kidney disease that occurs when high blood glucose levels damage kidney function. About 1 in 3Trusted Source adults with diabetes in the United States also have chronic kidney disease.
A person’s diet can influence both kidney disease and diabetes. Although it may not be possible to reverse kidney damage, people can prevent or delay kidney disease with lifestyle behaviors, such as changes to the diet. Similarly, a nutritious, well-balanced diet may help slow or prevent type 2 diabetes or control other types of diabetes.
A person with kidney disease and diabetes should aim to eat foods that help regulate their blood sugar levels and limit the amount of waste and fluid that their kidneys process.
The role of the kidneys is to remove excess water and waste from the body by turning it into urine. The kidneys help balance the body’s levels of potassium, acids, and salts. Kidney disease occurs when the kidneys are not functioning fully and are unable to carry out these tasks as effectively as usual.
Through dietary changes, a person can limitTrusted Source the amount of minerals, salts, and fluid their kidneys must process. They can also choose foods that give them energy and are unlikely to lead to further health complications.
Diabetes is a health condition in which a person is unable to produce enough insulin or respond correctly to it. This hormone is responsible for allowing the body to use glucose from food as energy. When this process does not occur, a person’s blood sugar levels can become too high, which is known as hyperglycemia. Conversely, a person may also experience low blood sugar levels, known as hypoglycemia.
When a person’s blood sugar is not within a healthy range, they may begin to feel unwell. If a person is regularly unable to keep their blood glucose within these ranges, they can develop health complications. Along with other management strategies, such as medications and regular exercise, following a diabetes meal planTrusted Source can help a person manage their blood sugar levels.
Foods to limit
It may be advisable for people with kidney disease, diabetes, or both to try limiting certain foods. A dietitian will be able to advise a person on which foods may be unsuitable for them.
For kidney health
People with kidney disease may benefit from limiting their salt intake. Excess sodium, which is naturally present in many foods and is a major part of table salt, can cause swollen ankles, puffiness, increased blood pressure, shortness of breath, and fluid around the heart and lungs.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney DiseaseTrusted Source suggests that people with kidney disease should consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day. As such, people may wish to restrict their intake of salty seasonings, certain sauces, salted snacks, cured foods, and processed foods.
A person with kidney disease should also consider eating only moderate portions of protein. Although this macronutrient is essential for building muscle and growing
In this article, we discuss the role of nutrition in managing kidney disease and diabetes.
Foods to include and healthy eating plans to try
There is no one-size-fits-all eating plan for a person with diabetes and kidney disease. Much of what a person chooses to eat will depend on the stage of their conditions, their weight, and their personal preferences.
However, many processed foods contain added ingredients that may worsen diabetes and kidney disease. A person with these conditions may wish to prepare and cook meals themselves so that they are fully aware of the ingredients.
Although a person may feel as though having diabetes and kidney disease significantly limits their food choices, it is possible to include a wide range of food options in a balanced eating plan. In many cases, people can still enjoy similar meals and snacks, but with more nutritious alternatives or smaller portion sizes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, the following foods and beverages are suitable for individuals with both diabetes and kidney disease:
Fruits: berries, grapes, cherries, apples, and plums
Veggies: cauliflower, onions, eggplant, and turnips
Proteins: eggs, unsalted seafood, and lean meats, such as poultry and fish.
Fruits: berries, grapes, cherries, apples, and plums
Veggies: cauliflower, onions, eggplant, and turnips
Proteins: eggs, unsalted seafood, and lean meats, such as poultry and fish
Carbs: whole grain breads, unsalted crackers, and pasta
Drinks: water, clear diet sodas, and unsweetened tea
As high blood pressure and heart disease are known risk factors for both kidney disease and diabetes, a doctor or dietitian may suggest elements of a Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. The DASH diet aims to reduce blood pressure, and it may also lower cholesterol and aid weight management.
Other tips for healthy kidneys and diabetes management
People can take steps to maintain their kidney health and control their blood sugars. These steps includeTrusted Source:
engaging in regular physical activity
reaching or maintaining a moderate body weight
following a balanced eating plan and modifying it if necessary
staying hydrated
quitting smoking, if applicable
limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption, if applicable
adopting good sleep hygiene practices to get sufficient sleep
Summary
Many people live with both diabetes and kidney disease. Following an eating plan that helps regulate blood sugar and minimizes stress on the kidneys can help a person manage these conditions and lower their risk of complications.
Although it is important for these individuals to limit their intake of certain foods, this approach can sometimes feel challenging. However, many foods are available that can form part of a varied and nutritious eating plan that suits individual preferences. For additional help, people can consider consulting a dietitian.
You must be logged in to post a comment.