According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, more than 100,000 Americans are diagnosed with kidney failure each year. The clearinghouse also notes that the most common cause of kidney failure is diabetes, and many individuals with controlled diabetes have compromised kidney functioning. Kidney disease is related to higher risk of hypertension, because the kidneys handle the processing of sodium. Both diabetes and kidney disease respond positively to healthy eating habits and physical activity, which can reduce the need for medication in some cases.
Step 1
Keep your blood sugar levels under control. According to the National Kidney Foundation, this is the best way to stop or slow the damage to the kidneys by the effects of diabetes. In addition, the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Database cites a research study that found individuals who maintained their blood sugars at a healthy level experienced a 50 percent reduction in the development and worsening of kidney disease. If you have diabetes and potential kidney damage, have your A1C, or average blood glucose levels, checked every three to six months with a simple blood test.
Step 2
Maintain a healthy blood pressure. The National Kidney Foundation explains that hypertension can lead to kidney failure. Ideally, you should maintain your blood pressure at or below 130/80, which may be accomplished by avoiding sodium and eating a healthy diet; however, many individuals also require medication. Medications for lowering blood pressure can have additional beneficial effects because they can slow the progression of kidney disease.
Step 3
Eat a diet that is moderate in protein. According to the National Kidney Foundation, while protein is an important part of any diet, individuals who have diabetes or kidney disease should avoid consuming excessive amounts. Controlling the amount of protein in your diet limits the amount of work necessary by the kidneys to process it into waste. Talk to your doctor about consulting a nutritionist in order to determine how much protein you should consume daily.
Step 4
Monitor your cholesterol level through visits to your doctor. In 2000, researchers at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health found that both high triglycerides and low HDL or "good" cholesterol were predictors of kidney disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, an HDL level of 60 mg/dL or above and triglyceride below 150 mg/dL are generally ideal. However, the desirable numbers may differ if an individual has an indication of increased risk of heart disease.
Step 5
Seek treatment early if you are experiencing problems with urinary flow or symptoms of an urinary tract infection. These medical conditions, according to the National Kidney Foundation, can cause damage to the kidneys if left untreated. Certain over-the-counter medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs can also cause kidney damage, so consult your doctor before taking any medications not prescribed to you.
References
- National Kidney Foundation: Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Kidney Disease of Diabetes
- National Kidney Foundation: Nutrition and Chronic Kidney Disease
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health: Link Found between Cholesterol and Kidney Disease
- Mayo Clinic: Cholesterol levels: What numbers should you aim for?
