The role of diet therapy in chronic kidney disease

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function over time. Millions of adults have CKD and those who have diabetes, hypertension, and family history of kidney failure are at highest risk of its development. Patients may develop comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, anemia, mineral and bone disorders, and peripheral nervous system diseases. Those with kidney failure require dialysis or kidney transplantation, as well as medications, diet therapy, restriction of fluid intake, and lifestyle modifications. The cost for such treatment represents an enormous burden on healthcare systems worldwide, costing about 8% of the Medicare budget in the U.S. Literature review findings Chronic kidney disease is now described based on internationally accepted definitions and diagnosed, when structural or functional abnormalities of the kidneys persist for more than 3 months. End-stage kidney disease is the last stage of chronic kidney disease and is associated with a decreased quality of life and life expectancy. This comprehensive literature review focuses on the effectiveness of dietary therapy in delaying the progression of CKD to end stage kidney disease (ESKD). Current evidence provides guidelines to manage ESRD with the general population. However, despite this, many clinicians do not know how to use diet as part of clinical management. Proposed methods Given the broad spectrum of different dietary therapies to decelerate progression of CKD, many providers do not utilize this information in clinical practice. A workshop hosted by registered dieticians, summarizing the most up-to-date literature on the topic of dietary interventions to slow down CKD progression would be beneficial. The workshop will measure mid-level and high-level practitioner’s knowledge on dietary therapy for CKD and assess this post-workshop. The goal is to expand the knowledge of providers and equip them with the resources necessary to educate patients on healthy dietary modifications, in order to minimize progressive CKD. Conclusions Despite the availability of dialysis and recent advancements in post-transplant care, there is a benefit to lifestyle modification. There is promising evidence that a diet low in protein, potassium, or salt and following certain diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, is beneficial in the deceleration of CKD to end stage renal disease (ESRD). A diet containing processed foods, high protein, high salt, and high potassium content has been associated with an increased risk of transition from late-stage CKD to ESRD. It is possible that these dietary recommendations may apply to prevention of CKD or ESRD. The workshop will present the most up-to-date knowledge in the area of dietary therapies for CKD. A curriculum for mid- and advanced-level health care providers will provide them with the tools necessary to provide their patients with nutrition and lifestyle management.

Author dc:creator

• Ansari, Farah

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Stern, Lauren
• Weinstein, John

• Medicine
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diet

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/2144/49442

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.bu.edu:2144/49442