Diabetes and renal, or kidney, disease often go hand in hand. According to the American Association of Kidney Patients, diabetes is the number one cause of chronic kidney disease. Chronically high blood sugar levels in your blood can place stress on your kidneys, forcing them to work harder than normal. Over time, your kidneys simply stop working due to overuse. Kidney failure due to diabetes however, can occur over a period of time and not necessarily suddenly. Making changes to the way you eat may help decrease the progression of kidney disease caused by diabetes. Check with your doctor before making significant dietary changes.
Counting Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are your body's main source of fuel and are metabolized into glucose during the digestive process. Counting carbohydrates is a primary way to maintain continuity of your meals, so they each provide approximately the same amount of nutrition. This helps to keep blood glucose levels stable and decreases fluctuations in blood sugar that can cause your kidneys to work harder. According to the American Association of Kidney Patients, a single serving of carbohydrates is equal to approximately 15 g. This is the amount of carbohydrate you should have in each meal.
Limiting Protein
People with healthy kidneys don't have a problem processing protein, however if you have diabetes, kidney disease, or both, you may need to limit the amount of protein you consume. The Harvard School of Public Health explains that the recommended daily intake of protein according to the American Diabetes Association is .8 to 1 gram of protein per kilogram. of bodyweight. This provides approximately 10 percent of your daily calories in the form of protein. This may be helpful in improving the functioning of your kidneys with less effort required for processing the foods you eat. If you have more advanced kidney disease, Harvard School of Public Health recommends that you maintain your protein intake at approximately .8 grams per kilogram of bodyweight daily.
Limit Potassium
Potassium is a naturally occurring mineral that can pose a problem if you have kidney problems caused by diabetes. According to the National Kidney Foundation, compromised kidney function means it's difficult for your body to process potassium, leaving it coursing through your bloodstream. Potassium levels can become dangerously high as a result, increasing your risk of cardiac problems like a sudden heart attack. Limiting foods that are high in potassium can help decrease this risk and lower the potassium levels in your blood. Foods that are low in potassium include apples, strawberries, white flour products, skim milk and sugar-free ice cream and pudding.
Limit Sodium Intake
Sodium is another essential mineral that appears naturally in most foods. If your kidneys however, are unable to process sodium from the foods you eat, it accumulates in your blood and tissues. Sodium naturally attracts water and causes it to accumulate in your body, a condition known as edema. This fluid buildup can occur in your hands and feet and around your lungs and heart, making it difficult to breathe. If left untreated, edema can tax the kidneys further and can lead to renal failure as well as other medical conditions. Limiting your sodium intake can decrease the potential for developing edema. The National Kidney Foundation recommends that you avoid all seasonings and foods that contain added sodium. Focus instead on herbs and spices for flavoring and avoid eating highly processed foods.
References
- American Association of Kidney Patients; How Can I Follow My Diabetic and Renal Diet Restrictions?; Carra Moroni, LDN, RD
- Harvard School of Public Health: The Nutrition Source: Protein
- National Kidney Foundation: Sodium and Your CKD Diet: How to Spice Up Your Cooking
- National Kidney Foundation: Potassium and Your CKD Diet
