Kidneys are a vital part of our body. It helps filter waste products and toxins from the blood, regulates fluid and electrolyte balance, and regulates blood pressure. When the kidneys are damaged, they may lead to complications, such as struggling to filter waste and toxins from the blood, resulting in a buildup of harmful substances in the body. One of the most common causes of kidney damage is diabetes, said Dr Anupam Biswas, MD, DM Endo., Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetologist, Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fortis Hospital, Noida. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, which affects their functionality and leads to further problems. This condition is also called diabetic nephropathy. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Biswas discusses the certain tips to maintain healthy kidneys in diabetes patients.
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How Common Is Kidney Disease?
“Kidney disease affects 10% of the population worldwide and is responsible for millions of deaths per year,” said Dr Biswas, adding that kidney disease globally is among the rapidly growing diseases with a significant impact on both public health and the economy. In India alone, approximately 11.5 crore people suffer from kidney disease, and diabetes is estimated to be the largest contributor to this condition.
If you have diabetes or are at risk of diabetes, it is crucial to manage your blood glucose levels to effectively prevent damaging your kidneys, the doctor emphasised.
Tips For Diabetics To Maintain Healthy Kidneys
Here are some tips diabetics can follow to maintain healthy kidneys:
Monitoring blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
“Regular monitoring of blood sugar, blood-pressure, and cholesterol levels is crucial to ensure the effective management of diabetes and reduce the risk of renal complications,” advised Dr Biswas, adding that a doctor can help one set a target range for these 3 treatment goals and recommend an optimum monitoring schedule that is customised to one’s unique needs. “It can help you make improvements to your diet, exercise routine, and medications as needed and ensure your blood glucose level is within the target range,” he added.
Following a healthy diet
Diet plays a crucial role in managing diabetes and protecting the kidneys. According to Dr Biswas, a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate blood glucose levels, promote health, and reduce the risk of renal complications. On the contrary, indulging in fast foods, processed foods, and excessive amounts of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats can worsen your diabetes conditions and increase the risk of kidney damage. Adding further, the doctor said, “While having a healthy diet is advisable, it is equally important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water and limit the intake of sugary liquids.”
Ensuring an active lifestyle
In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly is also crucial for managing diabetes and protecting your kidneys. “Exercise helps control blood glucose levels by making the body use insulin more effectively lowering the risk of kidney disease. In fact, studies indicate that people with diabetes who exercise regularly are less likely to develop renal complications than those who do not,” said Dr Biswas.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, spread out over at least three days. This can include activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to exercise safely.
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Adhering to medications as prescribed
The doctor stresses on the importance of adhering to the medication regimen as prescribed by your doctor. He said, “Prescribed medicines can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of kidney complications. It's essential to take these medications as directed and must communicate any concerns or side effects with your doctor immediately. Skipping or altering your medication schedule can lead to fluctuations in glucose levels, raising the risk of kidney damage and other renal complications associated with diabetes.” Therefore, it is advisable to closely work with your healthcare provider to ensure compliance with the medications and tailor your treatment plan according to your unique needs.
Get regular health check-ups
Regular check-ups are also an essential part of maintaining healthy kidneys in diabetics. “Your doctor may advise routine blood and urine tests to monitor your kidney function and detect any anomalies for early detection of kidney diseases,” Dr Biswas said, adding, “Early detection and intervention can help in preventing kidney disease from progressing to more advanced stages.”
If you’re a diabetic or are at an increased risk of the disease, following these tips can make you less prone to kidney disease. “Remember to stay hydrated, eat a healthy diet, stay active, and adhere to the management plan as prescribed by your doctor. These lifestyle modifications can vastly reduce your risk of kidney disease and help you invest in your overall health and well-being,” the doctor concluded.