Can patients with diabetic nephropathy drink beer?
Disease description:
My father was diagnosed with diabetes, but he really enjoys drinking beer and won't listen to any劝阻. May I ask, can patients with diabetic nephropathy drink any type of beer?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
For patients with diabetic nephropathy, drinking beer is not recommended. This advice is based on several considerations:
1. **Kidney burden**: The kidneys of patients with diabetic nephropathy are already damaged. Alcohol and purines present in beer can increase the burden on the kidneys, elevate uric acid levels, and negatively affect kidney health.
2. **Blood glucose control**: Alcohol in beer may cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels, which is detrimental to blood sugar control in patients with diabetes.
3. **Other health issues**: Excessive beer consumption may also lead to health problems such as hypertension and hyperuricemia, further worsening the patient's condition.
Patients with diabetic nephropathy should maintain a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and routine blood glucose monitoring, while avoiding alcohol consumption to reduce kidney burden and manage their condition. In terms of dietary choices, the focus should be on foods that are low in sugar, salt, and fat and high in fiber. Patients should also follow individualized dietary recommendations provided by a physician or nutritionist.
