Hello!
Diabetes and Kidney Disease
Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. When blood sugar levels remain high for prolonged periods, they can cause irreversible damage to the kidneys, leading to diabetic kidney disease (DKD). If not properly managed, this can progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and even end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. However, early detection and proper management can prevent or slow down the progression of kidney disease in people with diabetes.
How Diabetes Damages the Kidneys
The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. However, prolonged high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels and filtering units of the kidneys, reducing their ability to function correctly. This leads to protein leakage in the urine (albuminuria) and a gradual decline in kidney function.
Diabetes-related kidney disease progresses in the following stages:
Early kidney damage – Small amounts of protein appear in the urine, but kidney function remains primarily normal.
Moderate kidney disease – More protein leaks into the urine, and kidney function starts to decline.
Severe kidney disease – The kidneys struggle to filter waste properly, increasing the risk of kidney failure.
End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) – Kidney function is significantly impaired, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Given these risks, early detection and intervention are key to slowing disease progression and protecting kidney health.
How to Prevent or Delay Kidney Disease Progression
Several strategies can help prevent or delay kidney disease in people with diabetes:
- Maintain Blood Sugar Control
- Keeping blood sugar within target levels reduces the risk of kidney damage. The Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test, which measures average blood sugar over three months, should be checked regularly. Aim for an HbA1c level below 7% or as your doctor recommends.
- Monitor and Control Blood Pressure
- High blood pressure puts additional strain on the kidneys. The target blood pressure for people with diabetes and kidney disease is less than 130/80 mmHg. Medications like angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly prescribed to protect kidney function and control blood pressure.
- Use Medications That Protect the Kidneys
- Newer medications, such as SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., Empagliflozin, Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin), have been shown to reduce the risk of kidney disease progression. These medications lower blood sugar while also protecting kidney function by reducing pressure on the kidneys and preventing protein leakage in the urine.
- Follow a Kidney-Friendly Diet
- A healthy diet can slow the progression of kidney disease. Consider the following dietary tips:
- Reduce sodium intake (limit processed foods and avoid excessive salt).
- Control protein consumption (too much protein can strain the kidneys).
- Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains support kidney health).
- Stay well-hydrated (drinking enough water helps kidney function).
- A healthy diet can slow the progression of kidney disease. Consider the following dietary tips:
- Avoid Medications That Harm the Kidneys
- Some over-the-counter medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen, can worsen kidney damage. Always check with your doctor before taking any new medications.
Essential Tests to Monitor Diabetic Kidney Disease
Regular monitoring is essential for early detection and management of diabetic kidney disease. Key tests include:
- Urine Albumin Test
- This test measures the amount of protein (albumin) in the urine. Even small amounts of albumin (microalbuminuria) may indicate early kidney damage.
- Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)
- The eGFR test estimates how well the kidneys are filtering waste. A lower eGFR suggests declining kidney function. An eGFR of below 60 mL/min/1.73m² for three months or more indicates chronic kidney disease.
- Blood Pressure Check
- Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial since high blood pressure accelerates kidney damage.
- Serum Creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Tests
- These blood tests measure waste levels in the blood, helping assess kidney function. High creatinine or BUN levels may indicate kidney impairment.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your kidneys should be a top priority if you have diabetes. You can significantly reduce the risk of kidney disease progression by managing blood sugar, controlling blood pressure, taking kidney-protective medications, and undergoing regular monitoring.
If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor about the best strategies and medications to preserve your kidney health. Early intervention can make a significant difference, helping you live healthier while preventing serious complications.
2025 Nutrition Trends for National Nutrition Month
3 Nutrition Trends & Facts:
- Personalized Nutrition – Tailored diets based on genetics and microbiome testing are gaining popularity. Use caution and seek guidance to make sure tests are reputable and evidence based.
- Gut Health Focus – Eating 30 different plant-based foods per week supports a diverse microbiome.
- Blood Sugar Balance – People are prioritizing fiber, protein, and meal timing to avoid energy crashes.
2 Important Reasons to Improve Diet:
- Reducing Inflammation – Anti-inflammatory foods can help lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- Sustainability – Choosing climate-friendly foods supports both personal health and the planet.
1 Outcome:
The best diet is one that’s balanced, sustainable, and works for you—small, science-backed changes can lead to lifelong health benefits!
Read more HERE.
How We’re Helping
Every dollar raised in our fundraisers will help create awareness for diabetes prevention and management. Our holistic philosophy ensures that those touched by KDO receive diabetes-related assistance however they may need it. This includes preventive care through early screening and education, providing resources for management, and a focus on the prevention of long-term complications and comorbidities.
Join Our Team!
Are you passionate about helping people live healthier lives? Do you believe in the power of education and prevention to tackle diabetes? If so, we invite you to join our team here at KDO! With your help, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by diabetes.
Join us today and be a part of a team making a positive impact on the world.
“I joined KDO to raise awareness and contribute to the larger effort to improve diabetes care and treatment ” – Abbas Kisat
Stay Connected!
We want to make sure you stay connected and feel part of the Kisat Diabetes Organization family. Be sure to follow us on social media so you can stay updated on the impact of your generosity and all the good things happening in our community.
Check out our blog, upcoming events and helpful diabetes information on our website: kisatdiabetes.org