ADA & Renal Diet

Because chronically high blood sugar stresses the kidneys, people with uncontrolled diabetes may develop kidney disease or kidney failure. When the kidneys become diseased or fail, your doctor may recommend a renal diet along with medicine and possibly dialysis to help the kidneys function better. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) suggests that you not make radical changes to your diet before talking to your doctor and nutritionist.

Low-Protein Diet

• Eating a low-protein diet can help slow the progression of kidney disease according to both the ADA and the National Kidney Foundation. Because altering your protein intake can interfere with blood sugar control, do not start a low-protein diet without first seeking a doctor's advice. For a low-protein renal diet, reduce your intake of animal products such as meat, eggs and cheese, and high-protein vegetable products like legumes and soy.

  Add bulk to your meals with more vegetables. Eat low-protein bread and pasta. Substitute additional rice for some of the meat in your favorite casserole or soup recipes. You may find it difficult to get enough calories on a low-protein diet. If you have trouble maintaining a healthy weight, consult a dietician.

Other Considerations

• Because having diabetes puts you at higher risk for renal disease, take care of yourself and your kidneys. Manage and control your blood sugar. A study conducted by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases found a 50 percent decrease in kidney disease in patients who intensively controlled their blood sugar levels.

  Check your blood pressure at least a few times per year. High blood pressure puts additional strain on the kidneys. Keep your blood pressure under 130/80. Take medications as prescribed for high blood pressure and eat a diet low in sodium. Stop using the salt shaker and season your food instead with salt-free herbal blends. Do not use salt substitute unless advised by your doctor, since many of them contain potassium, another element you may need to limit on your renal diet. Avoid canned and processed foods high in sodium.

  If kidney disease progresses, it's possible that you will need dialysis or a kidney transplant. Your doctor may prescribe new medication or a different diet while you are on dialysis or after your kidney transplant. A new kidney will process insulin differently than your old diseased kidneys, so your insulin needs may increase.