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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Please advise members who are struggling. What is the kidney diet ?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Durban, ZA
August 15
 · 
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A DiabetesTeam Member

There are different diet restrictions depending on the stage of your kidney disease and goes a lot by your egfr test result. It is good to be proactive but it is hard to follow both a diabetic diet and kidney diet as they often contradict leaving a limited selection of food!

August 15
DiabetesTeam

Managing diabetes means also keeping an eye on kidney health, since the two are closely connected. A kidney-friendly diet helps reduce the strain on your kidneys while also keeping blood sugar in check. It's not one-size-fits-all, so working with a registered dietitian is strongly recommended.

Here are the key principles Show Full Answer

Managing diabetes means also keeping an eye on kidney health, since the two are closely connected. A kidney-friendly diet helps reduce the strain on your kidneys while also keeping blood sugar in check. It's not one-size-fits-all, so working with a registered dietitian is strongly recommended.

Here are the key principles of a kidney-friendly diet for people with diabetes:

- Limit protein — aim for only 10–20% of daily calories from protein, as too much can stress the kidneys
- Reduce salt — high sodium raises blood pressure, which can worsen kidney function
- Watch potassium — avoid high-potassium foods like bananas, tomato-based products, dried fruits, and most juices
- Limit phosphates — found in many processed foods, phosphate is hard for kidneys to filter
- Cut refined carbs — cookies, crackers, and sugary foods spike blood sugar quickly
- Focus on healthy fats, lean proteins, and high-fiber foods
- Stay hydrated — unless your doctor advises otherwise A DiabetesTeam member shared that switching to a low-carbohydrate diet improved their lab results so significantly that their doctor held off on prescribing additional medication. Small, consistent changes really can make a big difference.

Always speak with your doctor or a dietitian before making major dietary changes — what works for one person may not be right for another. You've got this! 💪

August 15
A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member
When I was on Farxiga my egfr was really low. I wasn't taking in enough water. My doctor did recommend that I double my water intake and I didn't listen. She decided to take me off of the Farxiga because I just couldn't handle that much water. My egfr greatly improved after stopping the Farxiga. Water is crucial for good kidney function. Certain diabetes meds like Farxiga, and Jardiance needs extra water intake or there will be problems for certain individuals like myself. Those meds can cause dehydration as well
I had to drink Gatorade zeros to keep my electrolytes in balance.

August 16
A DiabetesTeam Member

I was in stage3 ckd. My egfr really improved after stopping the Farxiga. My doctor thinks the medicine may have resulted in a lower egfr. @A DiabetesTeam Member I'm sorry, diabetic complications suck.

August 16
A DiabetesTeam Member

I do have kidney disease after being a diabetic for so long it was a complication I ended up with.

August 16

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