Dietary fiber and protein: nutritional therapy in chronic kidney disease and beyond

The health benefits of dietary fiber in the general population are increasingly recognized. Krishnamurthy et al. provide compelling evidence that chronic kidney disease (CKD) further augments these benefits. CKD, besides a microinflammatory state, is a state of increased proteolytic fermentation. Both these harmful conditions are exacerbated by dietary protein and reversed by dietary fiber. Future nutrition guidelines should consider recommending a higher consumption of dietary fiber or potassium-free alternatives such as prebiotics in CKD patients. Kidney International (2012) 81, 227-229. doi: 10.1038/ki.2011.394