We are what we eat, and proper nutrition is the key essential step for managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
A good diet is essential for reducing the burden of other diseases associated with kidney disease, such as hypertension, diabetes and early atherosclerotic disease (heart attacks and strokes).
Patients with CKD, and patients opting for conservative management, may attempt a very low protein diet with an essential keto-amino acid supplementation program, coupled with regular follow-ups with a dietitian.
In pre-dialysis ESKD patients and patients already on dialysis, good nutrition is needed to prevent complications (infections and muscle wasting, in particular).
Regular assessment using tools such as bioimpedance spectroscopy, blood test for nutrition markers (albumin and pre-albumin), and body measurements help us to prescribe the most appropriate diet and supplements.
