Taking care of your kidneys with diabetes

Kidneys play a vital role in keeping the body healthy. They filter blood to remove fluid and waste from the body. The high blood sugar of diabetes can damage the kidneys, making it harder for them to do their job.

Complications can include:

• High blood pressure
• Swelling in arms and legs
• Heart and blood vessel disease (leading to stroke)
• Foot sores
• Sexual issues (erectile disfunction in men; vaginal dryness in women)
• Damage to kidneys (requiring transplant or dialysis)
• Damage to eyes

Keep your blood sugar under control

• Eat a variety of healthy foods.
• Exercise regularly.
• Take your medicines as prescribed.
• Test your blood sugar often.

Manage your blood pressure

• Lose weight (if needed).
• Exercise regularly.
• Reduce salt in your diet.

Quit Tobacco

• Body tissue can’t thrive without strong blood flow. One of the effects of diabetes is the narrowing of blood vessels, and tobacco only makes that worse. Your kidneys are especially at risk of very serious problems.
• If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about classes and other resources.

Get regular kidney checkups

• Avoid complications by getting a microalbumin urine test once a year. 

Make good food choices

• Spread out your carbs during the day and make sure to get the right amounts of protein, salt, and fluid.
• Talk to a member of your care team if you need help finding meal plans that are right for you.

Exercise regularly

• Physical activity helps you control your blood sugar, stay at a healthy weight, and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week.

Watch for changes in your kidney health

Talk to your care team if you notice any changes in your kidney health, including:

• Vomiting  
• Less urine than normal 
• No urine 
• Blood in your urine  
• New areas of swelling