Dietary Fiber and Gut Microbiota in Renal Diets

Nutrition is crucial for the management of patients affected by chronic kidney disease to slow down disease progression and to correct symptoms. The mainstay of nutritional approach to renal patients is protein restriction coupled with adequate energy supply to prevent malnutrition. However, other aspects of renal diets, including fiber content, can be beneficial. This paper summarizes the latest literature on the relationship between the type of dietary fiber and prevention and management of CKD, with special attention to intestinal microbiota and the potential protective role of renal diets. A proper amount of fiber should be recommended not only in general population but also in chronic kidney disease patients, to asses an adequate composition and metabolism of intestinal microbiota and to reduce the risks connected with obesity, diabetes and dyslipidemia.