A study conducted by researchers at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands has found that kidney transplant patients who follow a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) have a lower risk of decreased kidney function and kidney failure.
The study followed 632 Dutch kidney transplant patients whose donor kidneys functioned for at least one year.
Our results show that adherence to a Mediterranean diet is associated with preservation of renal function in kidney transplant recipients.
Patients were followed for five years and asked to self-report their diet. Based on the answers given, patients are rated on a scale of 1 to 9 for their compliance with the Mediterranean diet, with higher scores meaning better adherence.
Although 19% of participants experienced a decline in renal function (versus 33% of recipients, who typically experience declines in renal function within 10 years after transplantation), higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with decreased kidney function. It was inversely correlated with functional decline.
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Each 2-point increase in score was associated with a 29% decrease in worsening kidney function and a 32% decrease in the risk of kidney failure.
“Our results show that adherence to a Mediterranean diet is associated with preservation of renal function in kidney transplant recipients, especially those with high proteinuria and recently transplanted patients,” said Antonio, lead author of the study.・W. Gomez Neto said.
““Studies in the general population have shown that adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet may help preserve kidney function,” he added. “Considering that long-term graft failure still occurs in a significant number of kidney transplant recipients, we conclude that adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet also benefits kidney function preservation in kidney transplant recipients. The purpose was to investigate whether. ”
Michelle Ruthenstein, a clinical dietitian who was not involved in the study, said the anti-inflammatory effects associated with the Mediterranean diet may be one reason why adhering to it may be beneficial for kidney transplant patients. told Olive Oil Times.
“The Mediterranean diet is good for healthy people due to its basic principles of eating more plant-based meals rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, healthy fats, spices, and rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It will be a good choice. It has beneficial properties that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, making it ideal for post-kidney transplant recipients,” she said.
However, Rosenstein cautioned that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to organ transplants, so patients should always consult their doctor before making dietary choices.
““Each person must be evaluated independently, and the amount of certain nutrients and foods may vary based on that person’s laboratory findings, medication regimen, and food preferences,” she said. “Many people still have impaired kidney function and may not be able to consume large amounts of certain nutrients that are prevalent in the Mediterranean diet. ”
This study American Society of Nephrology Clinical Journal.
