The aim of the present study was to review the possible role of dietary lipids in diabetic nephropathy (DN), taking into account associated abnormalities of serum lipids and interaction of dietary and genetic aspects. Dietary lipids may have an important role in the development and progression of DN. The fat diet composition has been associated with DN, particularly with microalbuminuria, serum lipids abnormalities, and endothelial function. However, the beneficial effect of fat intake modification for these patients is not fully established, especially regarding hard outcomes, such as DN incidence and progression, kidney failure, and death. Moreover, genetic factors may influence the response of serum lipids to fat intake. The identification of specific genetic polymorphisms associated with this interaction could allow adoption of individual nutritional strategies in DN.