Western Diet May Speed Renal Decline

A diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, poultry, and whole grains may slow loss of kidney function over time, according to a report in the American Journal of Kidney Disease (2011;57:245-254).

Among 3,121 mostly middle-aged and older white women taking part in the Nurses’ Health Study, overall kidney function was generally good.

Compared with subjects who adhered to this healtier diet, those following a Western-style diet (high in red and processed meats, saturated fats, and sweets) were more likely to experience microalbuminuria and rapid decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate.

From the March 01, 2011 Issue of Renal and Urology News