Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a serious complication of type 2 diabetes, or diabetes mellitus (T2DM), characterized by high blood pressure and reduced kidney function, which can progress to end-stage renal disease. The continued increase of diabetes in the United States is resulting in higher instances of DN and the need for preventative measures.

A recent study investigated the role that meat consumption plays in the development of inflammation, oxidative stress, and kidney damage. Here is what they learned.*

What the researchers did 

For the study, researchers enrolled 210 female participants between the ages of 30 and 65 (average age 55). Of these, 105 participants had T2DM, and the other half did not. 

A team of dietitians assessed the participants’ dietary intake. Meat consumption was divided into categories comprising:

• Red meat (beef, lamb, organ meats)
• White meat (fish, chicken, turkey)
• Processed meat (sausages, canned fish, etc.)

Participants’ kidney function was determined through:

• GFR
• BUN levels
• Albumin-to-creatinine ratio

Blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and lipid profiles were also documented.

What they found and what it means

The research team found that:

• Higher consumption of red meat was linked to increased risk of DN.
• Participants who ate more red meat or processed meat showed:
  • Elevated fasting blood sugar 
  • Higher creatinine levels
  • Lower GFR
  • Increased risk of DN.
• Higher consumption of white meat was associated with 80% lower odds of DN.

For the controls, eating white meat was associated with potential cardiovascular benefits, including lower hemoglobin, triglycerides, and albumin levels. 

While the nutritional analysis reflected that red, white, and processed meats all contributed the benefits of various nutrients, vitamins, and fats, the overall study results indicated that the risks presented by high red and processed meat consumption may outweigh the benefits.

More research is needed to better understand the relationship between eating meat and developing DN, and how that information can improve dietary recommendations. 

*Malesu, V. K. (2024, May 8). Study identifies strong link between red, processed meat intake and severe kidney damage in diabetic women. News Medical Life Sciences. https://www.news-medical.net/news/20240508/Study-identifies-strong-link-between-red-processed-meat-intake-and-severe-kidney-damage-in-diabetic-women.aspx 

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