How Does a Balanced Diet Help with Diabetic Nephropathy?

Everyone is aware of diabetic nephropathy and what amount of stress it can cause to a person, but do you know that your diet dictates your general health? More elevated blood sugar levels over time damage the kidneys to cause diabetic nephropathy. You can enhance your general health as well as prevent diabetics’ nephropathy by making appropriate food choices. An optimal nutritional diet is very important in supporting kidney function and compilations, and managing diabetes is essential in slowing down kidney damage. Let’s learn which foods are OK to eat, which are not, and how stem cell therapy can be beneficial.

Foods You Should Eat for Better Kidney Health

High-Fiber Intake 

Consuming fiber will reduce the tension in the kidney by helping lower blood sugar levels. Healthy high-fiber alternatives include whole-grain foods such as

• Brown rice
• Quinoa
• Oats

Some other sources you can include in your diet are fruits like apples and berries accompanied by vegetables of your choice—bell peppers, carrots, leafy greens, and so on.

Low-Protein Foods

While protein is very necessary to add to your meal, however, its overconsumption leads to a straining of the kidneys. Choose plant-based proteins such as

• Lentils
• Tofu

You can also include lean protein sources from fish, skinless chicken, and eggs. Only if you consume dairy, go for low-fat milk or yogurt.

Good Fats

One important factor for diabetic nephropathy patients is eating healthy fats to help the patient with their heart condition and lower inflammation. You should incorporate into your diet foods with high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids:

• Walnuts
• chia seeds
• Salmon
• flaxseeds
• Replace butter with olive oil.

Fruits and Vegetables with Low Potassium

Although these are some of the most essential fruits and vegetables, some have high potassium levels, which is dangerous if your kidneys are not filtering them well. Avoid

• Bananas
• Oranges
• Potatoes

Instead, you should use lower-potassium foods like apples, berries, cabbage, cauliflower, and green beans.

Adequate Water

Drinking enough water helps to flush toxins out of the body. Try to drink sufficient water, but if fluid restrictions are placed on your activity, talk to your doctor.

Foods You Should Avoid to Protect Your Kidneys

High-Sodium Foods

Overconsumption of salt can worsen kidney damage and increase blood pressure. You should strictly avoid processed foods like

• Fast food
• Pickles
• Canned soups
• Salty snacks

You can use spices and herbs to flavor your food instead.

Eats and Drinks High in Sugar

These create blood sugar spikes, which tend to exacerbate renal damage. Avoid cakes, fruit juices, sodas, and candies. Substitute with natural sweeteners like stevia and reserve fresh fruits to be eaten less frequently.

Processed and Red Meats

High in protein and phosphorus are red meat as well as other processed meats that include bacon, sausages, and meats from delis. Switch your diet to incorporate plant-based proteins or lean meat.

Excessive Potassium Foods

You should avoid eating excessive potassium; it can cause a problem of heart and muscle weakness. Reduce consumption of avocados, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, and potatoes. Instead, opt for foods rich in lower levels of potassium, like cauliflower, apples, and grapes.

Excessive Dairy Products

It is dangerous for kidney disease patients due to a higher consumption of dairy products or phosphorus found in them. Reduce cheese, yogurt, or milk consumption or pick lesser levels of phosphorus foodstuffs.

Coffee and Alcohol

Consuming both excessive caffeine and alcohol can cause dehydration and further strain the kidneys. Drink less alcohol and, if you can, switch to decaf coffee or herbal teas.

Diabetic Nephropathy Treatment with Global Stem Cell Care

For people looking for state-of-the-art diabetic nephropathy treatments, it is a highly promising use of stem cells that can repair kidney tissue damage, reduce inflammation in the kidneys, and thereby help improve the condition of the kidney. According to studies, the use of these cells also tends to enhance renal cell regeneration as well as delay the progression of kidney disease. If you are interested in the therapy but are not sure if you are a good candidate, make an appointment to speak with a specialist at Global Stem Cell Care to learn more.