Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Research Analysis

Q: What is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and how is it measured?

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a key measure of kidney function; it indicates the flow rate of filtered fluid through the kidneys and is typically expressed in mL per min and is adjusted for body surface area. GFR can be measured directly via the more accurate measured GFR (mGFR) with substances like inulin or the estimated (eGFR) with markers such as serum creatinine; the latter is more convenient but less reliable.

Q: Why are low protein diets not recommended in my country as an intervention for CKD?

International guidelines recommend a protein intake of approximately 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day for chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3–5, which aligns with the general population's RDA. The prescription of low-protein diets for CKD management varies by region; it is less common in the U.S. and Canada, due to negative study results, but more prevalent in Europe.

Detrick Snyder

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

•Last Updated: January 22, 2025

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a degenerative disease of the kidneys. In addition to medication, CKD is managed nutritionally with diets that modify the intake of specific nutrients affected by impaired kidney function.

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Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) falls under theKidney & Urinary Healthcategory.

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Detrick Snyder, RDN, MPH

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Marina Shkayeva, PharmD

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Graham Walker, MD

Last Updated:January 22, 2025

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What is CKD?

Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter and detoxify the blood, which results in waste accumulation in the body. It affects 11% to 13% of the global population and can worsen over time, although progression may be stabilized and some disease markers can be reversed.

What are the signs and symptoms of CKD?

Chronic kidney disease typically shows no symptoms until kidney function is significantly impaired, and common symptoms include fatigue, confusion, and swelling. Diagnostic signs include decreased GFR, protein in urine, and elevated creatinine levels, alongside markers of underlying conditions like high blood pressure and dyslipidemia.

How is CKD diagnosed?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often asymptomatic in its early stages, which has led to recommendations for yearly kidney function screenings for people at risk. Diagnosis is based on kidney function tests that show persistent markers of damage; CKD is classified into five stages according to the glomerular filtration rate.

What is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and how is it measured?

What are some of the main medical treatments for CKD?

Chronic kidney disease treatment focuses on managing kidney function and addressing underlying conditions like heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes through medications, diet, and lifestyle changes. Key treatments include medications for blood pressure and metabolic management, as well as dialysis for cases of severe kidney dysfunction.

How could diet affect CKD?

Diet plays a crucial role in managing chronic kidney disease by necessitating the limitation of foods high in sodium, phosphorus, and protein and emphasizing calcium and vitamin D intake. Various dietary approaches — including low-protein, low-salt, and plant-based diets — have shown potential benefits for certain disease markers, although research on their long-term effects is limited.

Why are low protein diets not recommended in my country as an intervention for CKD?

Have any supplements been studied for CKD?

Several supplements have been studied for chronic kidney disease, including amino acid supplements with very-low-protein diets, potassium citrate, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Other investigated supplements include vitamin E, antioxidant therapies, coenzyme Q10, and various herbal and nutritional compounds.

Are there any other treatments for CKD?

There are no well-studied alternative treatments for managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) outcomes or symptoms, but complementary modalities like acupuncture and mindfulness can enhance well-being. Managing underlying conditions such as type-2 diabetes and hypertension may also benefit people with CKD, along with addressing feelings of depression and anxiety.

What causes CKD?

Chronic kidney disease is primarily caused by diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension; certain medications and other factors like infections, kidney trauma, congenital abnormalities, and autoimmune conditions can also contribute to its development or worsening.

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