| Theme |
Care of Patients with Chronic Renal Failure under Malnutrition -- The Teamplay of Physicians, Nutritionists, and Nurses |
| Title |
Dietary therapy in predialysis renal failure |
| Author |
Akira Ohishi |
Department of Internal Medicine, Kasumigaura National Hospital |
| [ Summary ] |
Although it is often difficult for a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to demonstrate that a low protein diet (LPD) has a significant effect on the progression of chronic renal failure, both meta-analyses of RCTs and animal experiments indicate that LPD retards the progression of chronic renal failure. However, because LPD may lower the quality of life for patients and produces expenses for patients, we should recommend LPD only to patients who are really interested in it. In order to avoid malnutrition due to low energy intake, patients should be advised to consume special foods that include less protein and more energy. Maintenance of good compliance requires 24-hour urine collection and active involvement of nutritionists in a medical team. |