Plant-based kidney diets prescribed in nutrition clinics: clinical advantages with low risks of hyperkalemia

A diet rich in plant-based foods, such as vegetables and grains, may help to prevent and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), compared to animal-based foods. Patients affected by CKD are often affected by several comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, determining the challenging task of preparing a diet that should take into account contrasting limitations regarding caloric, protein, and electrolytes intake. Thus, professional nutritional intervention is an essential strategy to manage signs and symptoms in CKD, including hyperkalemia (HK), a frequent complication of CKD.