Acceptability of Plant-Based Diets for People with Chronic Kidney Disease: Perspectives of Renal Dietitians

Nutrients. 2022 Jan 4;14(1):216. doi: 10.3390/nu14010216.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the perspective of renal dietitians regarding plant-based diets for chronic kidney disease (CKD) management and evaluate the acceptability of a hypothetical plant-based dietary prescription aiming for the consumption of 30 unique plant foods per week. This study used an exploratory mixed methods design. Forty-six renal dietitians participated in either an online survey (n = 35) or an in-depth interview (n = 11). Dietitians perceived that plant-based diets could address multiple clinical concerns relevant to CKD. Forty percent of survey respondents reported the hypothetical dietary prescription was realistic for people with CKD, 34.3% were unsure, and 25.7% perceived it as unrealistic. Strengths of the hypothetical prescription included shifting the focus to whole foods and using practical resources like recipes. Limited staffing, time, and follow-up opportunities with patients, as well as differing nutrition philosophies were the most commonly reported challenges to implementation; while a supportive multidisciplinary team was identified as an important enabler. To increase patient acceptance of plant-based dietary approaches, education about plant food benefits was recommended, as was implementing small, incremental dietary changes. Successful implementation of plant-based diets is perceived to require frequent patient contact and ongoing education and support by a dietitian. Buy-in from the multidisciplinary team was also considered imperative.

Keywords: barriers; chronic kidney disease; cross-sectional survey; enablers; implementation; plant-based diets; qualitative research.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Diet, Vegetarian*
  • Health Plan Implementation / methods
  • Humans
  • Nutritionists*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Qualitative Research
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / diet therapy*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires