Kidney health basics: kidneys and diabetes
Around 1 in 3 adults with diabetes have kidney disease. In fact, diabetes is the second leading cause of kidney disease in the United States. Here’s what you need to know about the link between diabetes and kidney health.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition that causes blood sugar (or glucose) to rise to higher-than-normal levels.
Our bodies get sugar from the food we eat. Our cells need this sugar for energy. We use a hormone called insulin to get sugar from the blood into our cells.
When we have trouble using insulin, sugar can’t get into the cells. This can also happen if we’re not making enough insulin. As a result, sugar stays in the blood longer than it should. This causes the high blood sugar levels that are common in diabetes.
High blood sugar can hurt many parts of the body, including the kidneys. It can also cause damage to the eyes, liver, heart, and nerves.
Diabetes Treatment
The goal of diabetes treatment is to keep blood sugar levels in a safe range. To do this, your doctor might prescribe oral medication. Diabetes meds can help insulin work better. Or, your doctor might recommend insulin injections.
Food and exercise are more important tools to manage diabetes. Eating balanced meals and snacks can help control blood sugar. Exercise can help our bodies use blood sugar for energy.
Diabetes and Kidney Disease
Over time, high blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in your kidneys. This damage can lead to kidney disease.
If you have diabetes, you should see your doctor at least once a year for a kidney check. Always follow up with your providers. Be sure to get any labs that they order.
What Can You Do?
If you have diabetes, you can take action to prevent kidney disease. Do you have both diabetes and kidney disease? These same steps will help slow kidney damage.
- Eat a healthy diet. Focus on non-starchy veggies, fruit, and whole grains. Limit added salt, sugar, and fat. Choose lean proteins like chicken or turkey breast, fish, seafood, lean beef, pork, eggs, and beans. Check in with your doctor for your specific needs.
- Take your meds as your doctor prescribed them.
- Don’t forget to follow up with your doctor.
- Get at least 30 minutes of movement every day.
- Maintain, or get to, a healthy body weight.
- Stop smoking.
- Limit or avoid alcohol.
In this article:
Was this article helpful?
Learn about low-impact exercise and the health benefits for your body and mind, as well as ideas for starting low-intensity activities.
Enjoying the holiday season doesn’t mean your health has to be thrown off track. Here are tips and tricks to stay on track during the holiday season.
Discover a variety of fresh and delicious fruit recipes perfect for spring. Enjoy healthy and tasty dishes that highlight seasonal fruits.
Food cravings are natural. We all have a taste for something specific from time to time. It’s important to understand why you’re having a craving.
We all tend to indulge during the holiday season. Luckily, it’s possible to add a dash of health and lighten up desserts.
Eating more protein does not necessarily mean eating more meat. There are many lower fat protein options.
Get advice on treating acne effectively, regardless of your age or the season. Learn about different treatment options and skincare routines to keep your skin clear and healthy.
Focusing on flexibility and balance builds a foundation of fitness that will positively affect almost all elements of your life, especially as you grow older.
Enjoy summer get-togethers while sticking to your health goals. Discover tips for staying active, making healthy food choices, and staying hydrated at your next outdoor event. Learn how to balance fun and wellness with practical advice from Teladoc.
Digging into ice cream after a tough day? You're not the only one soothing yourself with food to help deal with stress. Learn how to curtail this behavior.
Building your healthier, together.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.