The protein seems to be an extra load for the kidney to handle, and reducing the protein will make less work for the damaged kidneys. It is wise to meet with the dietitian at this stage to discuss what the correct amount of protein should be. The extra effort to stay in good blood sugar control may indeed save much work in later life in dealing with the eye and kidney complications of diabetes. It is linked to lung cancer, high blood pressure, and heart attacks in ALL people and is thus a poor choice for everyone. In addition, data from our Center has shown that smoking results in about a three-fold greater likelihood of diabetic kidney complications.
Smoking also causes diabetic eye disease to progress more rapidly.
The mechanism by which smoking does this is unknown, but as people who chew tobacco seem to have the same consequences, it may be from the absorption of nicotine into the body. Therefore, these effects had to be removed before a conclusion about smoking could be reached. Smoking results in higher HbA1c levels by increasing levels of other hormones, such as adrenaline, which raise the blood sugar. The heart rate and blood pressure also increase and this may be related to the increased eye and kidney problems. Q. Dr. Chase, our son has been chewing tobacco.