Summary
This narrative review by Uchiyama-Tanaka, published in Renal Replacement Therapy (2025), examines the evolving dietary guidance for chronic kidney disease management in the context of an ageing population. It challenges the conventional focus on blanket restriction of protein, potassium, and phosphorus, instead highlighting evidence that plant-based proteins and dietary fibre may confer protective benefits for kidney function and gut health. The review also addresses the negative role of ultra-processed foods and suggests that moderate consumption of fruits and vegetables, previously discouraged due to potassium content, may be beneficial when their fibre contribution is considered.
UK applicability
The findings are broadly applicable to UK clinical and dietary practice, particularly given the growing burden of CKD among older adults in the UK and ongoing NHS dietary guidance reviews; the emphasis on plant-based protein and reduced ultra-processed food consumption aligns with wider UK public health policy directions.
Key measures
Kidney function indicators; dietary protein source (plant vs animal); gut microbiome markers; fibre intake; short-chain fatty acid production; potassium and phosphorus intake; CKD progression outcomes
Outcomes reported
The paper reviews the evidence on dietary interventions in chronic kidney disease, assessing the effects of protein quality, dietary fibre, short-chain fatty acids, probiotics, and ultra-processed food consumption on kidney function and gut health outcomes.
Topic tags
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