Nutritional management of diabetic nephropathy

Abstract

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is characterized by albuminuria, which is usually accompanied by hypertension, progressive rise in proteinuria. There are several approaches to delay progression of diabetic nephropathy towards end stage renal failure (ESRD). Current approaches include a) control of blood glucose; b) low-protein diet; c) control of hypertension; restriction of dietary salt, phosphorus and potassium in advanced cases d) control of hyperfiltration, usually through angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blocking agents. Nutrition management is fundamental for the prevention of diabetic nephropathy to ESRD.