Kidney Care for Diabetics: A guide to protecting your renal health

India is the diabetes capital of the world, with 17% of the global population suffering from diabetes. Almost 80 million people in India are diabetic, and this number is expected to rise to 135 million by 2045. Affecting daily lifestyle, diabetes also invites other lifestyle diseases as high sugar levels affect and interfere with the work of the kidney. This can negatively impact renal health, also affecting the neighboring organs.

The link between diabetes and kidney health

High blood sugar, termed as HbA1c levels, above 7% over time can damage the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys. This results in reducing the ability of the Kidney to filter waste from the blood and maintain fluid balance. This slow damage, if not checked and prevented, can lead to diabetic nephropathy . Diabetic Nephropathy is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease. Diabetes with high blood sugar levels affects the waste filtration capacity of the kidney. When sugar levels go up, it confuses the Kidney for waste absorption. The kidney will start flushing out the nutrients that need to be absorbed by the blood. To check if your body’s absorption rate is good, urine examination is advised as it will help as an early indicator of kidney damage.

As per some recent studies, diabetic nephropathy is a common complication. It’s observed that nearly 30% of diabetics eventually develop some form of kidney disease. Without timely screening, minor kidney damage can turn big, requiring dialysis or transplant of kidney.

What are some warning signs to watch for?

Recognizing early signs of kidney issues in diabetics is important to prevent the ability loss of the organ. The body will show symptoms like swelling in the feet or ankles, fatigue, change in urination frequency and color, and lastly, high blood pressure.

Since kidney damage progresses silently, regular screening and monitoring of waste levels in blood is essential for early detection and treatment. Also, consider tracking sugar on a regular basis to help your doctor for proper medical checkup or treatment.

Take care of your kidney health as a diabetic

1. Maintain blood sugar levels and follow the routine prescribed to you. Adding exercise to your daily life will also help improve the overall working of your body.

2. High blood pressure stresses the kidneys. So, keep your blood pressure within the recommended limits by following a healthy lifestyle.
3. Avoid having processed and packaged foods and go for a low-protein diet to ease the kidney's workload.
4. Food rich in potassium and phosphorus improves nutrient absorption in blood and functioning of the kidney.
5. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated as it helps to flush out toxins from the body. Also avoid alcohol and smoking.

6. Timely visiting the doctor and checking with them on your progress. Also, do share if you face any unnatural symptom with your health expert.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular medical check-ups, managing blood sugar and blood pressure reduces the risk of kidney complications. With the right steps, you can protect your renal health and lead a healthier life.

(Article courtesy: Seema Ahuja, Senior Dietician at Healthians)