Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a rapidly growing problem worldwide and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. In fact, CKD is the ninth leading cause of death in the United States.

The good news is that proper nutrition can help reduce the risk of premature death in people with CKD.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose function. This loss of function can eventually lead to kidney failure, where the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste products from the blood.

CKD is usually a progressive condition, meaning that it gets worse over time.

The Link Between CKD and Nutrition

Nutrition plays an important role in the prevention and management of CKD. People with CKD have specific nutritional needs, and it is important that they receive appropriate advice and support to manage their diet.

Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient that is important for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. However, people with CKD often need to limit their protein intake.

This is because the kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, including the waste products that are produced when we eat protein. If the kidneys are not working properly, these waste products can build up in the blood and cause damage to the body.

For people with CKD, it is important to limit protein intake and choose high-quality protein sources, such as eggs, fish, chicken, and lean cuts of meat. Plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, and tofu, can also be included in the diet.

However, these foods should be eaten in moderation as they also contain potassium and phosphorus, which can be harmful for people with CKD in large amounts.

Sodium

Sodium is an important electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance in the body. However, people with CKD often need to limit sodium intake.

This is because high sodium intake can cause the body to retain fluid, which can lead to swelling and high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for CKD and can worsen the condition.

To reduce sodium intake, people with CKD should avoid processed foods, which are often high in sodium. Instead, they should choose fresh foods and season them with herbs and spices instead of salt.

Eating out can be particularly challenging for people with CKD, as restaurant meals are often very high in sodium. It is important to ask for dishes to be prepared without salt or to choose lower-sodium menu options.

Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral that helps regulate fluid balance in the body and is important for nerve and muscle function. However, people with CKD often need to limit their potassium intake.

This is because the kidneys are responsible for removing excess potassium from the blood, and if the kidneys are not working properly, potassium levels can become too high and cause muscle weakness, heart palpitations, and other symptoms.

Foods that are high in potassium include bananas, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, and spinach. People with CKD should limit their intake of these foods and choose lower-potassium options, such as apples, peaches, green beans, and cabbage.

It is important to talk to a doctor or dietitian about how much potassium is safe to consume, as the amount will vary depending on the severity of the CKD.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is an important mineral that is necessary for bone health and cell function. However, people with CKD often need to limit their phosphorus intake.

This is because the kidneys are responsible for removing excess phosphorus from the blood, and if the kidneys are not working properly, phosphorus levels can become too high and cause bone disease and other complications.

Foods that are high in phosphorus include dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, nuts, beans, and whole grains.

People with CKD should limit their intake of these foods and choose lower-phosphorus options, such as low-fat dairy products, eggs, chicken breast, and white rice. It is important to talk to a doctor or dietitian about how much phosphorus is safe to consume, as the amount will vary depending on the severity of the CKD.

Fluids

People with CKD often need to limit their fluid intake. This is because the kidneys are responsible for removing excess fluid from the body, and if the kidneys are not working properly, fluid can build up and cause swelling and high blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for CKD and can worsen the condition.

To reduce fluid intake, people with CKD should avoid drinks that are high in sugar, such as soda and fruit juice. Instead, they should choose water, herbal tea, and other low-sugar drinks.

It is important to talk to a doctor or dietitian about how much fluid is safe to consume, as the amount will vary depending on the severity of the CKD.

Vitamins and Minerals

People with CKD may be at risk for vitamin and mineral deficiencies. This is because the kidneys are responsible for activating vitamin D and removing excess minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, from the blood.

If the kidneys are not working properly, vitamin and mineral levels can become too low or too high.

People with CKD should talk to a doctor or dietitian about whether they need vitamin and mineral supplements. It is important to avoid supplements that contain potassium or phosphorus, which can be harmful in large amounts.

Conclusion

Proper nutrition plays a critical role in reducing the risk of premature death in people with chronic kidney disease.

People with CKD need to pay careful attention to their diet and work closely with their doctors and dietitians to manage their nutritional needs. By following a balanced diet that is low in protein, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, and limiting fluid intake, people with CKD can help slow the progression of their disease and improve their overall health.