Introduction

Today, we’re going to discuss the first warning sign of kidney disease. The kidney, functioning as a filter, transforms blood into urine. It goes beyond being a passive filter, actively recycling all fluids. For instance, if you consume 8-9 glasses of water daily (approximately 2 to 2.25 liters), the expelled amount throughout the day aligns with your intake. However, the fluid passing through your kidneys in a day amounts to about 200 liters. Witnessing this extensive recycling showcases the kidney’s magical ability, not only in fluid recycling but also in recycling vital nutrients. This amazing filter, equipped with sensors, balances fluid levels, regulates blood pressure, maintains body hydration, and facilitates toxin and drug elimination. If you recognize the nephron’s role, you should think twice before consuming things that might harm this extraordinary organ.

Nocturia: The First Warning Sign of Kidney Disease

As kidney disease silently progresses, one sign emerges—a seemingly innocent act that speaks volumes about your kidney health. Nocturia, the condition of frequent urination at night, serves as the first red flag. There is a connection between diabetes, kidney problems, and the decade-long journey before symptoms manifest.

Diabetic Nephropathy

The average person possesses between 1 million and 1.5 million of these small filters known as nephrons. As you begin to develop kidney disease, the number of nephrons decreases, possibly leaving you with only half of your original count. Additionally, as you age, you naturally lose nephrons. Consequently, our ability to perform the vital function of filtering declines. The primary, most prevalent cause of kidney disease and eventual end-stage renal failure is closely tied to diabetes, termed diabetic nephropathy, where “nephro” refers to the kidney, and “apathy” denotes disease. The journey into kidney health takes a sharp turn towards diabetic nephropathy. There is a link between high blood glucose levels, glycation, and the formation of Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) that contribute to kidney damage.

Protein in the Urine

How do we diagnose kidney disease? The answer lies in the urine. Understanding the significance of protein in the urine as an indicator of kidney damage reveals the intricate connection between kidney health and the body’s protein recycling mechanism.

Edema

A cascade effect follows kidney damage, leading to edema—fluid retention throughout the body. Puffiness in the face, hands, and legs becomes a visible sign of compromised kidney function.

A Complex Relationship between Diabetes and Kidney

Diabetes usually takes a decade before we start noticing signs of kidney problems. Diabetes is closely associated with kidney issues. Increased levels of blood glucose trigger a harmful process known as glycation, resulting in complications and diminished efficiency in filtration. We see a multifaceted impact of diabetes on various tissues—kidneys, eyes, nervous system, and arteries. Challenging traditional approaches to diabetes management opens avenues for a more comprehensive perspective, emphasizing the pivotal role of not only reducing sugar intake but also effectively managing carbohydrates. This involves going beyond mere symptom control in the management of diabetes.

Strategies for Kidney Health

To address this situation, you can take several steps. The initial and most evident action is to reduce the sugar levels in your bloodstream, achieved by following a ketogenic eating plan. The subsequent step involves practicing intermittent fasting, which, by consuming less food, results in lower insulin levels, decreased insulin resistance, and a lowered risk of diabetes. These two strategies work well together. A proactive approach to safeguard kidney health includes integrating a ketogenic eating plan and adopting intermittent fasting. This combination helps mitigate insulin resistance and reduces the chances of kidney complications linked to diabetes.

The Power of Phytonutrients

Something important about kidney disease and diabetes is phytonutrients. These have cool properties, especially nephroprotection, which shields the kidney from damage due to high blood sugar. Imagine two diabetics, one with a diet low in phytonutrients and the other high; both are still diabetic, but the one with more phytonutrients has fewer issues. Phytonutrients have antioxidants, helping to reduce damage from high blood sugar. That’s why eating a big salad daily is good—it has magnesium, vitamin C, and potassium, which are crucial for kidney health. If you have end-stage kidney disease, ask your doctor before adding potassium-rich foods. Plant phytonutrients are definitely beneficial.

A Potent Remedy for Diabetic Nephropathy

The next thing I want to mention is a remedy called benfoatiamine. It’s a potent form of vitamin B1 that is fat-soluble, backed by extensive research. This remedy proves effective in addressing various aspects of diabetes, such as reducing glycation effects, decreasing oxidative stress, and protecting the cells. Benfotiamine exhibits notable benefits for peripheral neuropathy, addressing nerve damage in the feet, and can also be beneficial for issues like diabetic retinopathy affecting the eyes. Furthermore, it plays a significant role in decreasing complications related to diabetic nephropathy, addressing damage to the kidneys.

Alpha Lipoic Acid and Turmeric

Another thing you could add, if you really wanted to is alpha-lipoic acid. It’s another powerful way to decrease complications from this condition. Another option is turmeric, which contains a phytonutrient called curcumin. It is extremely potent in reducing the symptoms, signs, and complications of diabetes.

Taking Control of Kidney Health

Empower yourself with knowledge and action. Whether you aim to prevent kidney problems or address existing concerns like frequent nocturia, discover a comprehensive plan that combines diet, fasting, and targeted supplementation.

We aim to reduce the amount of carbohydrates and genuinely address the underlying problem. That’s why keto and intermittent fasting is essential. However, simultaneously, we can achieve positive results by mitigating the side effects caused by high blood sugar as part of an experiment. If you’re hesitant to lower your carbohydrates, perhaps you want to test these alternative approaches to see how they can reduce the need for medication or the amount you’re currently taking. Of course, consult with your doctor, but it can certainly be beneficial.

I wanted to cover this topic and provide information you can use if you’re facing this issue. If you frequently urinate at night, this is precisely what I would recommend. You might think you’re not diabetic, but it’s worthwhile to check your insulin resistance using a test called Homa IR, which detects resistance occurring well before diabetes. The point is there’s a connection between the carbohydrates you consume, experiencing nocturia (getting up in the middle of the night to urinate), and having the right plan in place regarding what to eat and how to approach intermittent fasting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the early warning signs of kidney disease is crucial for proactive health management. The kidney, an intricate filter, plays a pivotal role in recycling fluids and nutrients while regulating essential bodily functions. The gradual decline in nephrons, the kidney’s filtering units, is a common occurrence in kidney disease development, often associated with conditions like diabetic nephropathy. Elevated blood glucose levels initiate a damaging process called glycation, leading to complications and reduced filtration efficiency. Recognizing symptoms such as protein in urine and edema becomes vital, with the onset of nocturia being a significant early sign. The intricate relationship between kidney problems and diabetes underscores the importance of managing blood sugar effectively. 

Adopting lifestyle changes, including a ketogenic diet, intermittent fasting, and incorporating phytonutrient-rich foods, offers a holistic approach to kidney health. Additionally, remedies like benfotiamine, alpha-lipoic acid, and turmeric show promise in mitigating diabetes-related complications. 

By addressing the root cause and embracing a comprehensive strategy, individuals can potentially reduce reliance on medications and enhance overall well-being. Regular monitoring, including tests like Homa IR for insulin resistance, provides valuable insights for early intervention. Taking charge of one’s diet and embracing intermittent fasting can be instrumental in alleviating symptoms and fostering better kidney health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the first warning sign of kidney disease?

The first warning sign of kidney disease is nocturia, which refers to the condition of frequent urination at night. This seemingly innocent act serves as a significant early indicator of potential kidney health issues. If you find yourself urinating frequently during the night and struggling to hold urine, it may signal an underlying problem with your kidneys.

Are there specific dietary recommendations for kidney health?

Yes, adopting a ketogenic eating plan and incorporating phytonutrient-rich foods, like salads, can positively impact kidney health.

Can diabetic nephropathy be reversed?

While complete reversal may be challenging, proactive measures such as managing blood sugar levels and incorporating remedies like benfotiamine can mitigate complications.

How does intermittent fasting benefit kidney health?

Intermittent fasting helps reduce insulin resistance, supporting overall metabolic health and positively influencing kidney function.

Is there a connection between carbohydrates and kidney problems?

Yes, excessive carbohydrate intake, especially hidden sources, can contribute to high blood sugar levels, potentially impacting kidney health.