Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney damage. When blood sugar is maintained at a high level for a long time, small blood vessels in the kidneys are affected, reducing the ability to filter waste. This process takes place silently but can lead to chronic kidney disease if not controlled.
According to Dr. Aswini Kumar Panigrahi, a nephrology expert at Apollo Dialysis (India), simple dietary mistakes such as consuming too much salt, sugar or processed foods can increase pressure on the kidneys and accelerate the damage process.
One of the common mistakes is eating too much salt. Packaged foods, fast food, and processed foods often contain a lot of sodium, causing the body to retain water and increase blood pressure. This causes the kidneys to work harder and become more vulnerable over time.
In addition, dependence on processed foods also increases the risk of affecting the kidneys. These foods often contain a lot of unhealthy fats, sodium and preservatives, making it difficult to control blood sugar.
Dr. Panigrahi said: "Consuming too much protein can also be detrimental. Protein is essential, but excessive use, especially in people at risk of kidney disease, can increase the burden on the kidneys.
In addition, consuming a lot of sugar and refined starch such as candies and soft drinks can cause rapid blood sugar spikes. This prolonged condition will affect the kidney's filtering function.
Not drinking enough water is also a common mistake. Drinking enough water helps the kidneys excrete waste more effectively, while dehydration can increase the risk of kidney damage.
Some people also have the habit of skipping meals or eating irregularly. This can cause blood sugar fluctuations and lead to overeating in later meals, putting more pressure on the kidneys.
Experts recommend that people with diabetes should maintain a balanced diet, prioritize fresh foods, increase green vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. At the same time, it is necessary to limit processed foods, control salt and sugar levels, and maintain a habit of drinking enough water every day. Small adjustments but done regularly can make an important contribution to protecting kidney function and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
