A Simple Guide to Better Health
When you have diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD), it is very important to choose your foods carefully. Some foods can raise your blood sugar or cause extra stress on your kidneys. Below, we will talk about five foods to avoid with diabetes and CKD, and list some foods that are good to eat instead.
1. Foods High in Sodium
Many processed and packaged foods have too much salt. When you eat too much sodium, your body holds on to extra water. This can lead to high blood pressure and extra work for your kidneys, which is not good if you have CKD. Processed meats like bacon, deli meats and sausages are very high in sodium. Also, canned soups and salty snacks like chips or pretzels can hurt your kidney health. Try to avoid these foods and choose low-sodium versions instead.
2. Foods with Added Sugar
Added sugar is a hidden enemy for people with diabetes. It quickly raises blood sugar levels, and this can impact your overall health. Many sweets, soft drinks, candies and desserts contain added sugar. Diet sodas and flavored juices might seem like a better choice, but they can still have extra chemicals that can affect your body. For someone with diabetes and CKD, even a little extra sugar can slow down control of blood sugar levels. Always read food labels and choose items with little to no added sugars.
3. Foods High in Potassium
Potassium is an important nutrient for our bodies, but when you have CKD, too much potassium can be dangerous. When the kidneys are impaired, potassium can build up in your blood and may cause heart problems. Foods like bananas, oranges, tomatoes and potatoes are very high in potassium. These fruits and vegetables are healthy in other ways, but if your kidney function is low, your doctor may ask you to avoid too much potassium. Always talk with your health care provider about which fruits and vegetables work best for you.
4. Foods High in Phosphorus
Phosphorus is another mineral that, in normal amounts, helps your body. In CKD, however, phosphorus can build up in the blood and make your bones weak. Many dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt are high in phosphorus. In addition, some packaged and processed foods add extra phosphorus to make them taste better or last longer. If you are managing CKD, you might need to limit how much dairy you eat. This helps keep your phosphorus levels safe and prevents extra harm to your bones.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol is a common part of many people’s lives, but for those with diabetes and CKD, it is best to be very careful. It can raise your blood pressure and interact with your blood sugar control. It may also further burden your kidneys. Drinking can make it harder to take your medications or control your diet. It is a good idea to limit or avoid alcohol if you have diabetes and CKD. Your health care provider can give you advice about whether a little alcohol is safe or if you should avoid it completely.
Foods To Eat
Now that we have talked about foods and drinks to avoid, let’s look at some healthy options. Here are some foods that are good to eat if you have diabetes and CKD.
- Broccoli. This vegetable is full of vitamins and fiber. The fiber in broccoli slowly releases sugar, which is helpful if you have diabetes.
- Bell peppers. These are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants. They have a crunchy and sweet taste and are low in calories.
- Quinoa. This whole grain that is a great source of protein and fiber. It has a low glycemic index, which means it does not raise your blood sugar too fast.
- Skinless poultry. Chicken or turkey without the skin is a good source of lean protein. Lean protein is easier on the kidneys than high-fat meats.
- Fatty fish. Fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines are packed with omega-3 fatty acids. These fats help fight inflammation and can protect your kidneys from further damage.
- Water. Water is an important part of any diet. Keeping well hydrated helps your kidneys work correctly and helps you control your blood sugar.
If you have diabetes and CKD, choosing the right foods is key to staying healthy. By making these careful choices, you can help protect your kidneys, manage your blood sugar and feel your best every day.