Diabetes is a chronic disease of insulin deficiency or resistance in which disturbances in carbohydrates, fats and proteins metabolism lead to high blood sugar levels. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to help control blood sugar levels. Diabetics are at risk for kidney failure. Kidney failure in diabetics occurs when high blood sugar levels destroy small blood vessels found in the kidney. Diet modifications are used to control diabetes and kidney failure.
Proteins
Patients with diabetes should increase intake of high-protein foods because protein-rich foods help stabilize blood sugar levels. Protein intake is discouraged in patients with acute kidney failure who are not receiving dialysis treatments because the kidneys are not able to remove by-products of protein metabolism, according to Drugs.com. Patients with end-stage kidney failure and on dialysis may be allowed to eat more proteins.
Carbohydrates
Diabetics are advised to eat more complex carbohydrate's and limit consumption of simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates such as whole grain breads and cereals help stabilize blood sugar levels. Simple carbohydrates increase blood sugar levels. Patients with kidney failure are advised to eat high calorie carbohydrates to provide the body with energy. Lack of enough calories causes the proteins stored in the body to be broken down to provide energy. This process results in buildup of urea in the body because the failed kidneys cannot flush out the waste product.
Low-Sodium Diet
Doctors advise diabetics and patients with kidney failure to eat low-sodium foods. Sodium is a mineral that plays a major role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. Too much sodium can increase the risk of heart disease in patients with diabetes. Healthy kidneys are able to filter and excrete sodium. However, when the kidneys function becomes impaired, sodium accumulates resulting in swelling and puffiness. Examples of high sodium foods to be avoided include table salt, potato chips, bouillon cubes, canned soups, instant soups, pretzels, pickles and soy sauce.
Fluids
Patients with kidney failure suffer from fluid overload because the kidneys are not able to flush out excess fluids, according to PubMedHealth. Fluids are restricted in kidney failure patients to avoid further accumulation of fluids in the body. The amount of fluids patients drink is limited to the amount of urine they produce. Diabetics are encouraged to drink more fluids to prevent dehydration caused by frequent urination. High blood sugar levels cause increased urination.
