Nutrition and metabolism in kidney diseases

The impairment of kidney function, which occurs in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney injury (AKI), promotes specific alterations in nutrient metabolism (1) and induces a pro-inflammatory state (2). These alterations affect the nutritional status of the patients and increase morbidity and mortality risk. Among the many factors that are associated with poor outcomes in this population, protein-energy wasting, malnutrition, and sarcopenia play a significant role.

Nutritional management in individuals with impaired kidney function varies depending on the disease severity, nutritional status, cause of disease, comorbidities, medications, and treatment methods. Therefore, understanding the available methods for assessing nutritional status, establishing dietary requirements, and strategies for preventing or treating potential nutritional derangements is essential for optimal care of patients with kidney diseases. This Research Topic focuses on recent studies exploring nutrition and metabolism in CKD.