How diabetics can prevent Chronic kidney disease

Advice on Diabetes and Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD):

Chronic kidney disease is a common complication of diabetes, but effective management and preventive measures can help reduce the risk. Here is detailed advice:

1. Maintain Optimal Blood Glucose Control:
   • Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to ensure they remain within the target range.
   • Adhere to your prescribed medication or insulin regimen.
   • Follow a balanced diet with a focus on complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid excessive sugar and refined carbohydrates.
2. Manage Blood Pressure:
   • Aim to keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg or as advised by your doctor.
   • Reduce salt intake to less than 5-6 grams daily, equivalent to about a teaspoon of salt.
   • Incorporate regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, at least 150 minutes per week.
3. Routine Kidney Function Tests:
   • Undergo annual urine tests for albuminuria and blood tests for eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate). These tests help detect early signs of kidney involvement.
4. Medications for Kidney Protection:
   • If you have albumin in your urine, your doctor may prescribe ACE inhibitors or ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers) to protect your kidneys, even if your blood pressure is normal.
   • Take medications only as prescribed and avoid over-the-counter painkillers (e.g., NSAIDs) that can harm kidney function.
5. Healthy Lifestyle:
   • Maintain a healthy weight. Losing even 5-10% of your body weight can improve blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
   • Avoid smoking, as it reduces blood flow to the kidneys and exacerbates kidney damage.
   • Limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels, if at all.
6. Stay Hydrated:
   • Drink adequate water unless restricted by your doctor for medical reasons. Proper hydration supports kidney health.
7. Early Management of Infections:
   • Treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) promptly as they can worsen kidney function if left untreated.
8. Regular Follow-Up:
   • Work closely with your healthcare team, including your GP, diabetologist, and nephrologist (if required), for ongoing monitoring and tailored advice.

By following these steps, individuals with diabetes can significantly lower their risk of developing CKD or slow its progression if already present.