The kidneys play an important role in our body by clearing the blood of toxins and waste. They also help regulate fluid and electrolyte levels in the body. However, some diseases, including diabetes, can damage the kidneys. Diabetes is a serious disease that can lead to various complications, including kidney damage. But what can be done to prevent diabetic kidney changes or slow their progression?
- Blood Sugar Control
One of the most important ways to keep your kidneys healthy if you have diabetes is to constantly monitor your blood sugar levels. Maintaining normal or near-normal blood sugar levels is key to maintaining kidney health.
- Limiting protein foods
If you have protein in your urine, even if your blood urea and creatinine levels remain normal, limit your intake of protein foods. You should eat no more than 40 grams of protein per day. This corresponds to, for example, 150 grams of cooked meat or 200 grams of fish.
- Limiting salt intake
Salt intake should also be limited. Too much salt can harm the kidneys, especially if you have diabetes. Salty and canned foods should be avoided, as well as the use of additional salt when preparing food.
- Take your medications
Preventive medications that slow the progression of kidney changes caused by diabetes may help keep your kidneys healthy. Some of these drugs include Ednit, Renitek and Prestarium. If your blood pressure often rises, these same medications may help treat hypertension.
- Take antiplatelet agents
To normalize blood microcirculation, several times a year you can take monthly courses of antiplatelet agents, such as chimes and trental.
- Get urine tests
It is important for people with diabetes to have regular urine tests at least four times a year. High sugar content in urine creates a favorable environment for the development of microbes that often cause urinary tract infections. Therefore, it is important to regularly examine the urine to ensure that there is no inflammation in the kidneys, and, if necessary, to carry out treatment in a timely manner.
In conclusion, maintaining kidney health in diabetes requires constant monitoring and preventive measures. Maintaining normal blood sugar levels, limiting protein and salt intake, taking medications and antiplatelet agents, and having regular urine tests can all help keep the kidneys healthy and slow the progression of diabetic changes in them. However, do not forget that consultation with a doctor and adherence to treatment and prevention recommendations remain key measures in the fight for the health of the kidneys and the entire body as a whole.