Diabetic Nephropathy: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Diabetic nephropathy is a formidable microvascular complication of diabetes, primarily related to chronic hyperglycemia. It is characterized by progressive kidney lesions, which can lead to end-stage renal disease. Diabetes is the leading cause of renal failure in Europe and many other regions of the world. This condition affects the renal glomeruli, the kidney's filtration units, and manifests as abnormalities in glomerular filtration and increased protein excretion in the urine.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of diabetic nephropathy begins with glomerular hyperfiltration and renal hypertrophy in response to chronic hyperglycemia. This hyperfiltration, associated with increased glomerular pressure, causes lesions of the glomerular capillaries and increased permeability to albumin. Gradually, these damages lead to microalbuminuria, which can progress to macroalbuminuria, and finally, to chronic renal insufficiency. Renal lesions are also characterized by thickening of the glomerular basement membrane and mesangial expansion, contributing to the progressive decline in renal function.

Risk Factors

0 Diabetes Duration: The longer the duration of diabetes, the greater the risk of nephropathy. 20 Inadequate Glycemic Control: Poorly controlled blood glucose is a key factor. 20 Hypertension: Hypertension aggravates renal damage. 20 Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals have increased genetic susceptibility. 20 Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of microalbuminuria. 20 Dyslipidemia: Abnormal blood lipids are also involved.

Symptoms

Diabetic nephropathy is often asymptomatic in its early stages. Symptoms generally appear when the disease is already advanced. They may include: 20 Edema, often around the eyes or in the lower limbs. 20 Hypertension, sometimes difficult to control. 20 Proteinuria detectable on urine dipstick. 20 Fatigue, nausea, and other signs of advanced renal insufficiency.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of diabetic nephropathy is based on the detection of microalbuminuria, followed by macroalbuminuria. Routine tests include: 20 Urine Dipstick: For early detection of proteinuria. 20 Albumin/Creatinine Ratio: To confirm the presence of microalbuminuria. 20 Renal Biopsy: Rarely performed, except in cases of uncertain or atypical diagnosis.

Treatment

20 Strict Glycemic Control: To prevent disease progression. 20 Blood Pressure Control: Often with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). 20 Low-Protein Diet: To reduce the load on the kidneys. 20 Monitoring Renal Function: Adjust medication doses based on glomerular filtration rate. 20 Managing Other Risk Factors: Such as smoking cessation and lipid control.