Nutrition Trends in Kidney Transplant Recipients: the Importance of Dietary Monitoring and Need for Evidence-Based Recommendations

Immunosuppressive drugs and diet interact to modify the gut microbiota and cardiovascular risk factors, and to trigger diabetes

BACKGROUND

Kidney transplant recipients are prescribed an immunosuppressive therapy (IST) and some of them follow a high fat diet (HFD) despite medical recommendations. Both are frequently associated with gut microbiota changes and metabolic disorders. We aimed at precisely identifying the effect of the IST and the HFD on metabolic parameters and the gut microbiota in mice, and at establishing correlations between the latters.

METHODS

8-week-old male mice were treated with IST (a combination of prednisone, mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus) or not and were fed HFD or standard chow. Metabolic parameters were measured, and the gut microbiota was explored by the quantification of specific bacterial groups by qPCR and by 16S rDNA sequencing.

RESULTS

The HFD increased insulinemia and decreased the fecal proportion of Bacteroidetes and of Bacteroides. The IST increased systolic blood pressure and the fecal proportion of Escherichia coli. The HFD and the IST administered together resulted in an additive effect on glucose intolerance, high fasting blood glucose, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), percentage of fat mass, blood triglyceride, blood cholesterol, and endotoxemia. On the opposite, the HFD and the IST had antagonistic effects on body weight, the proportion of Firmicutes, the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, and the proportion of Clostridium leptum, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillus in the feces. Finally, we found that the correlations between gut bacterial communities and metabolic consequences of the HFD were altered by the IST.

CONCLUSION

The IST and the HFD have specific consequences on the gut microbiota and metabolism. We hypothesize that the metabolic consequences are at least partially mediated by IST/HFD-induced dysbiosis.

Kidney transplantation in Lupus Nephritis: a comprehensive review of challenges and strategies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), significantly impacting patient outcomes. Despite advances in immunosuppressive therapies, many patients progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and kidney transplantation becomes essential for improving survival. However, the unique characteristics of autoimmune diseases make the timing of kidney transplantation and post-transplant management challenging. This review evaluates authoritative guidelines and recent studies to identify optimal timing for kidney transplantation and effective pre- and post-transplant management measures for patients with LN. RECENT FINDINGS: Advancements in immunosuppressive therapies, including calcineurin inhibitors, Voclosporin, and biologic agents such as belimumab, have significantly improved LN management. Emerging biomarkers, such as urinary MCP-1 and BAFF, offer promising tools for monitoring LN activity and predicting recurrence risk post-transplantation. Current guidelines emphasize the importance of achieving disease quiescence before transplantation, while new evidence supports the benefits of preemptive transplantation and personalized immunosuppressive regimens in improving patient and graft survival. This review highlights the latest evidence and strategies for optimizing kidney transplantation outcomes in LN patients, focusing on timing, immunosuppression, and disease monitoring.

Effect of an intensive nutrition intervention of a high protein and low glycemic load diet on weight of kidney transplant recipients: a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of a high protein and low glycemic load diet in preventing weight gain after kidney transplantation.

METHODS

We designed a prospective, single-center, open-label, randomized controlled study to compare the efficacy of a high protein (1.3-1.4 g/kg/day) and low glycemic load diet versus a conventional diet (0.8-1.0 g/kg/day of protein and no recommendations on glycemic load) in preventing weight gain (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02883777). A total of 120 patients were evaluated. Patients were followed for 12 months, and the primary outcome was weight maintenance or weight gain lower than 5%.

RESULTS

There were no differences in total energy intake, carbohydrates, and total fats between groups. Intervention group (IG) increased protein intake to 1.38 ± 0.56 g/kg/day and decreased the glycemic load to 87.27 ± 4.54 g/day, while control group (CG) had a dietary protein intake of 1.19 ± 0.43 g/kg/day and a glycemic load of 115.60 ± 7.01 g/day. Total fiber intake was greater and trans-fat was lower in IG. Dietetic cholesterol increased in IG over time and was significantly different between groups. Overall, patients had an increase in body weight over time, with a mean increment of 4.1 ± 5.5 kg (5.75%). The percentage of patients who achieved the primary outcome was 50% of sample size, without differences between groups. The glomerular filtration rate improved over time in both groups. Considering 24-h proteinuria and albuminuria, a similar rise was observed in both groups.

CONCLUSION

The present dietary intervention was safe, but had no effect on weight gain in kidney transplant subjects. Our findings suggest that other strategies, including alternative dietary and/or pharmacological and psychological interventions might be tested in randomized control trials in order to improve patients' body weight outcomes after transplant.

Conscious Nutrition to Improve Survival Prognosis of Donor Kidney Recipients: A Narrative Review

Kidney transplantation is the optimal treatment for end-stage chronic kidney disease, increasing survival rates and improving quality of life. Diet affects patient weight and well-being, can trigger certain diseases, and influences post-surgery outcomes. The purpose of the study was to investigate dietary strategies in patients with chronic kidney disease, in early and long-term donor kidney recipients, and to formulate specific nutritional recommendations. For this purpose, a narrative review of the available information in both the Republic of Kazakhstan and the world's scientific literature over the last 10 years was carried out. The following evidence-based resources were used: Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Knowledge. The study provides the latest statistical data on kidney transplantation and risk factors, and a comparative analysis between countries. Existing data on basic nutrition and the possibility of using it after transplantation are examined in detail. In addition, the recommendations for daily intake of salt, potassium, sodium, vitamin D, and calcium were analyzed. The energy value of the diet and its association with overweight, obesity, and the development of diabetes mellitus were studied. Using DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and low-protein diets as examples, the potential risks and their applicability for this patient category are analyzed. The article's materials and conclusions can serve as a training manual for nephrologists, therapists, and surgeons.

Assessing health literacy in transplant patients to better tailor the content of their therapeutic education: an observational study

OBJECTIVES

Evaluate health literacy in transplant patients to better tailor the content of their continuing therapeutic education.

METHODS

A 20-item questionnaire divided into five themes (sport/recreation, dietary measures, hygiene measures, recognition of the signs of graft rejection and medication management) was sent to transplant patient associations. Participants' responses (a score out of 20 points), were analysed according to demographic characteristics, transplanted organ (kidney, liver or heart), type of donor (living or deceased), participation in a therapeutic patient education (TPE) programme, management of end-stage renal disease (with or without dialysis) and the date of transplant.

RESULTS

327 individuals completed the questionnaires (mean age 63.3±12.7 years, mean time post-transplant 13.1±12.1 years). From 2 years after transplantation, the patients' score decreases significantly compared with the score obtained at hospital discharge. Patients who received TPE had significantly higher scores than patients who did not receive it, but only in the first 2 years post-transplant. The scores were different depending on the organs transplanted. Patients' knowledge varied according to the theme; the percentage of errors being higher for questions related to hygienic and dietary rules.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the importance of the role of the clinical pharmacist in maintaining the transplant recipient's health literacy level over time to increase graft life. We show the topics on which pharmacists must acquire solid knowledge to best meet the needs of transplant patients.

Fueling the success of transplantation through nutrition: recent insights into nutritional interventions, their interplay with gut microbiota and cellular mechanisms

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The role of nutrition in organ health including solid organ transplantation is broadly accepted, but robust data on nutritional regimens remains scarce calling for further investigation of specific dietary approaches at the different stages of organ transplantation. This review gives an update on the latest insights into nutritional interventions highlighting the potential of specific dietary regimens prior to transplantation aiming for organ protection and the interplay between dietary intake and gut microbiota.

RECENT FINDINGS

Nutrition holds the potential to optimize patients' health prior to and after surgery, it may enhance patients' ability to cope with the procedure-associated stress and it may accelerate their recovery from surgery. Nutrition helps to reduce morbidity and mortality in addition to preserve graft function. In the case of living organ donation, dietary preconditioning strategies promise novel approaches to limit ischemic organ damage during transplantation and to identify the underlying molecular mechanisms of diet-induced organ protection. Functioning gut microbiota are required to limit systemic inflammation and to generate protective metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids or hydrogen sulfide.

SUMMARY

Nutritional intervention is a promising therapeutic concept including the pre- and rehabilitation stage in order to improve the recipients' outcome after solid organ transplantation.

Growth after pediatric kidney transplantation: a 25-year study in a pediatric kidney transplant center

OBJECTIVES

Growth failure is one of the major complications of pediatric chronic kidney disease. Even after a kidney transplant (KT), up to 50 % of patients fail to achieve the expected final height. This study aimed to assess longitudinal growth after KT and identify factors influencing it.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was performed. We reviewed the clinical records of all patients who underwent KT for 25 years in a single center (n=149) and performed telephone interviews. Height-for-age and body mass index (BMI)-for-age were examined at KT, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years post-transplant and at the transition to adult care. We evaluated target height, disease duration before KT, need and type of dialysis, recombinant human growth hormone pretransplant use, nutritional support, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and cumulative corticosteroid dose.

RESULTS

At transplant, the average height z-score was -1.38, and height z-scores showed catch-up growth at 6 months (z-score -1.26, p=0.006), 1 year (z-score -1.15, p<0.001), 5 years after KT (z-score -1.08, p<0.001), and on transition to adult care (z-score -1.22, p=0.012). Regarding BMI z-scores, a significant increase was also detected at all time points (p<0.001). After KT, GFR was significantly associated with height z-score (p=0.006) and BMI z-score (p=0.006). The height in transition to adult care was -1.28 SD compared to the target height.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the encouraging results regarding catch-up growth after KT in this cohort, results remain far from optimum, with a lower-than-expected height at the time of transition.

Physical Exercise After Solid Organ Transplantation: A Cautionary Tale

An increasing body of randomized controlled trials suggests the safety of engaging in moderate to vigorous intensity exercise training following solid organ transplantation. Fueled by emerging sport events designed for transplant recipients and the ever-growing body of research highlighting the diverse health benefits of physical activity, transplant recipients are now increasingly participating in strenuous and occasionally competitive physical endeavors that largely surpass those evaluated in controlled research settings. This viewpoint article adopts a cautionary stance to counterbalance the prevalent one-sided optimistic perspective regarding posttransplant physical activity. While discussing methodological limitations, we explore plausible adverse impacts on the cardiovascular, immunological, and musculoskeletal systems. We also examine the physiological consequences of exercising in the heat, at high altitude, and in areas with high air pollution. Risks associated with employing performance-enhancing strategies and the conceivable psychological implications regarding physical activity as a tribute to the 'gift of life' are discussed. With a deliberate focus on the potential adverse outcomes of strenuous posttransplant physical activity, this viewpoint aims to restore a balanced dialogue on our comprehension of both beneficial and potentially detrimental outcomes of physical activity that ultimately underscores the imperative of well-informed decision-making and tailored exercise regimens in the realm of posttransplant care.

Metabolic Syndrome and Dietary Intake are Associated With Quality of Life in Kidney Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Although metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a significant risk factor, and dietary intake may affect the quality of life (QoL) of kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), the association between them are unclear. This study identified MetS and nutritional factors associated with the QoL of KTRs.

METHODS

This study reports baseline data from a longitudinal study that was conducted at a hospital in Vietnam. KTRs aged ≥18 years and >3 months post-transplantation were recruited. Assessments included sociodemographic and blood biomarkers. Dietary intake was estimated from 24-hour recalls. A Short Form-36 Health Survey, comprising physical (PCS) and mental component summaries (MCS), was administered to assess QoL. Multivariate linear regression models were performed.

RESULTS

The study included 106 patients (79 men) with a mean age of 43.2 years (± 11.9). Mean duration after kidney transplantation was 28.5 months (± 14.9). Patients with MetS had 6.43 lower PCS score (P < .05) and 3.20 lower MCS score (P < .05) than their counterparts without MetS. Calcium intake (β = -0.01; 95% CI, -0.03 to 0.00) and inadequate protein (β = -14.8; 95% CI, -23 to -6.65) were negatively associated with PCS score. MCS score was negatively associated with calcium intake (β = -0.02; 95% CI, -0.04 to -0.01) and inadequate protein intake (β = -15.1; 95% CI, -24.3 to -5.86), and positively associated with fat intake (β = 0.43, 95% CI, 0.02-0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

MetS and poor dietary intake are independently associated with the QoL of KTRs. Nutritional intervention plans developed specifically for the recipients will improve dietary intake, reduce the incidence of MetS, and help enhance QoL.

The Nutritional Content of Meal Images in Free-Living Conditions-Automatic Assessment with goFOODTM

A healthy diet can help to prevent or manage many important conditions and diseases, particularly obesity, malnutrition, and diabetes. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence and smartphone technologies have enabled applications to conduct automatic nutritional assessment from meal images, providing a convenient, efficient, and accurate method for continuous diet evaluation. We now extend the goFOODTM automatic system to perform food segmentation, recognition, volume, as well as calorie and macro-nutrient estimation from single images that are captured by a smartphone. In order to assess our system's performance, we conducted a feasibility study with 50 participants from Switzerland. We recorded their meals for one day and then dietitians carried out a 24 h recall. We retrospectively analysed the collected images to assess the nutritional content of the meals. By comparing our results with the dietitians' estimations, we demonstrated that the newly introduced system has comparable energy and macronutrient estimation performance with the previous method; however, it only requires a single image instead of two. The system can be applied in a real-life scenarios, and it can be easily used to assess dietary intake. This system could help individuals gain a better understanding of their dietary consumption. Additionally, it could serve as a valuable resource for dietitians, and could contribute to nutritional research.

Frailty in kidney transplant candidates and recipients: pathogenesis and intervention strategies

ABSTRACT

With the rapid aging of the global population posing a serious problem, frailty, a non-specific state that reflects physiological senescence rather than aging in time, has become more widely addressed by researchers in various medical fields. A high prevalence of frailty is found among kidney transplant (KT) candidates and recipients. Therefore, their frailty has become a research hotspot in the field of transplantation. However, current studies mainly focus on the cross-sectional survey of the incidence of frailty among KT candidates and recipients and the relationship between frailty and transplantation. Research on the pathogenesis and intervention is scattered, and relevant review literature is scarce. Exploring the pathogenesis of frailty in KT candidates and recipients and determining effective intervention measures may reduce waiting list mortality and improve the long-term quality of life of KT recipients. Therefore, this review explains the pathogenesis and intervention measures for frailty in KT candidates and recipients to provide a reference for the formulation of effective intervention strategies.

Association Between Dietary Quality and Serum Cystatin C in Kidney Transplant Recipients Based on Chinese Diet Balance Index 2016 (DBI-16)

BACKGROUND Cystatin C (Cys) is considered to be a better marker than serum creatinine in assessing kidney function, predicting cardiovascular events, and all-cause mortality. It seems to be associated with nutritional status in the general population, but little is known about kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). This study aimed to explore the relationship between dietary balance index and serum Cys in KTRs. MATERIAL AND METHODS In a cross-sectional study, 215 KTRs completed an FFQ questionnaire and information on serum Cys. Dietary intake was assessed using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Dietary Balance Index 2016 (DBI-16) edition scores were calculated as an indicator of dietary quality. Data on the patient's serum Cys were obtained through the hospital information system. RESULTS The majority of KTRs were male (75.34%), 76.74% were aged 18-44 years, and 79.53% were abnormal serum Cys. Dairy (z=-2.161, P<0.05), meat (z=-2.578, P<0.05), and dietary diversity (z=-3.393, P<0.05) in the normal group were higher than those in the abnormal group, and the dietary quality distance (DQD) score (t=-2.264, P<0.05) was lower than that in the abnormal group. After adjusting for confounders, a low-quality diet was a risk factor for maintaining the normal level of serum Cys (OR 3.022, 95% CI 1.263-7.231, P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS The present study suggested that KTRs with a high dietary quality might be associated with normal serum Cys levels. Dairy, meat, and varied diet seems to impact the serum Cys levels of KTRs. Dietary imbalances were prevalent among KTRs.

Nutrition Disturbances and Metabolic Complications in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Etiology, Methods of Assessment and Prevention-A Review

Nutrition disturbances occur at all stages of chronic kidney disease and progress with the decrease of the kidney filtration rate. Kidney transplantation (KTx) as the best form of kidney replacement therapy poses various nutritional challenges. Prior to transplantation, recipients often present with mild to advanced nutrition disturbances. A functioning allograft not only relieves uremia, acidosis, and electrolyte disturbances, but also resumes other kidney functions such as erythropoietin production and vitamin D3 metabolism. KTx recipients represent a whole spectrum of undernutrition and obesity. Since following transplantation, patients are relieved of most dietary restrictions and appetite disturbances; they resume old nutrition habits that result in weight gain. The immunosuppressive regimen often predisposes them to dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance, and hypertension. Moreover, most recipients present with chronic kidney graft disease at long-term follow-ups, usually in stages G2-G3T. Therefore, the nutritional status of KTx patients requires careful monitoring. Appropriate dietary and lifestyle habits prevent nutrition disturbances and may improve kidney graft function. Despite many nutritional guidelines and recommendations targeted at chronic kidney disease, there are few targeted at KTx recipients. We aimed to provide a brief review of nutrition disturbances and known nutritional recommendations for kidney transplant recipients based on the current literature and dietary trends.

Effects of an individualized nutritional intervention on kidney function, body composition, and quality of life in kidney transplant recipients: Study protocol for a randomized clinical trial

Background

Proteinuria after kidney transplantation (KTx) has been a frequent problem due to several factors, high protein intake being one of them. Individualized nutritional intervention in the late post-KTx period can promote the improvement or the reduction of risks associated with the parameters of evaluation of kidney function, body composition, and quality of life in individuals submitted to KTx.

Methods

This is a single-center, randomized and stratified clinical trial. The study will be conducted in a university hospital in northeastern Brazil with 174 individuals aged ≥19 years submitted to KTx and followed up for 12 months. Assessments will take place at 3-month intervals (T0, T3, T6, T9, and T12). The patients will be allocated to intervention and control groups by random allocation. The intervention group will receive individualized nutritional interventions with normoproteic diets (1.0 g/kg) after 60 days of KTx whereas the controls will receive the standard nutritional guidance for the post-KTx period. The primary efficacy variable is the change from baseline in log proteinuria assessed with the urinary albumin/creatinine ratio. Secondary efficacy variables include body composition, anthropometry, quality of life assessment and physical activity, lipid profile and glycemic control. Ninety-two subjects per group will afford 70% power to detect a difference of 25% between groups in log proteinuria. Primary efficacy analysis will be on the modified intention-to-treat population with between-groups comparison of the change from baseline in log proteinuria by analysis of covariance.

Discussion

The study will assess the effects of an individualized nutritional intervention on proteinuria 12 months after KTx.

Trial registration

REBEC (RBR-8XBQK5).

The Impact of Human Microbiotas in Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Organ Transplantation

The human microbiota heavily influences most vital aspects of human physiology including organ transplantation outcomes and transplant rejection risk. A variety of organ transplantation scenarios such as lung and heart transplantation as well as hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is heavily influenced by the human microbiotas. The human microbiota refers to a rich, diverse, and complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, archaea, helminths, protozoans, parasites, and viruses. Research accumulating over the past decade has established the existence of complex cross-species, cross-kingdom interactions between the residents of the various human microbiotas and the human body. Since the gut microbiota is the densest, most popular, and most studied human microbiota, the impact of other human microbiotas such as the oral, lung, urinary, and genital microbiotas is often overshadowed. However, these microbiotas also provide critical and unique insights pertaining to transplantation success, rejection risk, and overall host health, across multiple different transplantation scenarios. Organ transplantation as well as the pre-, peri-, and post-transplant pharmacological regimens patients undergo is known to adversely impact the microbiotas, thereby increasing the risk of adverse patient outcomes. Over the past decade, holistic approaches to post-transplant patient care such as the administration of clinical and dietary interventions aiming at restoring deranged microbiota community structures have been gaining momentum. Examples of these include prebiotic and probiotic administration, fecal microbial transplantation, and bacteriophage-mediated multidrug-resistant bacterial decolonization. This review will discuss these perspectives and explore the role of different human microbiotas in the context of various transplantation scenarios.

Care Technologies to Improve Treatment Adherence in Patients Undergoing Organ Transplant: A Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to map care technologies being developed to improve treatment adherence in patients undergoing organ transplant.

METHODS

A scoping review was developed according to the Joanna Briggs Institute manual. The research question was developed according to the population, concept, and context strategy. Searches were conducted independently in 6 databases between June and August 2021. The data were evaluated and organized together. The review protocol was published.

RESULTS

Fifteen articles were part of the study, mostly published in the United States (33.3%) and in 2016 (33.3%). The main research method identified was clinical studies (80%). Most of the care technologies identified are in relation to medication adherence in the post-transplant setting. Another intervention identified was health education action with the support of mobile apps, electronic monitoring systems, and a card game.

CONCLUSIONS

The results present technologies directed at the importance of post-transplant drug adherence; however, it is important to adapt the technologies to the reality experienced by the patient, as well as to train patients so that they can introduce these technologies in their daily lives. Furthermore, it is important that technologies are developed that include other aspects of adherence to post-transplant treatment.

Dyslipidemia in Renal Transplant Recipients

Dyslipidemia is a frequent complication after kidney transplantation (KT) and is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) are considered at high, or very high, risk of CVD, which is a leading cause of death in this patient group. Despite many factors of post-transplant dyslipidemia, the immunosuppressive treatment has the biggest influence on a lipid profile. There are no strict dyslipidemia treatment guidelines for RTRs, but the ones proposing an individual approach regarding CVD risk seem most suitable. Proper diet and physical activity are the main general measures to manage dyslipidemia and should be introduced initially in every patient after KT. In the case of an insufficient correction of lipemia, statins are the basis for hypolipidemic treatment. Statins should be introduced with caution to avoid serious side-effects (e.g., myopathy) or drug-drug interactions, especially with immunosuppressants. To lower the incidence of adverse effects, and improve medication adherence, ezetimibe in combination with statins is recommended. Fibrates and bile sequestrants are not recommended due to their side-effects and variable efficacy. However, several new lipid-lowering drugs like Proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kexin type9 (PCSK9) inhibitors may have promising effects in RTRs, but further research assessing efficacy and safety is yet to be carried out.

Ultra-processed foods and risk of all-cause mortality in renal transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) have a 6-fold higher risk of mortality than age- and sex-matched controls. Whether high consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with survival in RTRs is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to study the association between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and all-cause mortality in stable RTRs.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study in adult RTRs with a stable graft. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated 177-item FFQ. Food items were categorized according to the NOVA classification system and the proportion ultra-processed foods comprised of total food weight per day was calculated.

RESULTS

We included 632 stable RTRs (mean ± SD age: 53.0 ± 12.7 y, 57% men). Mean ± SD consumption of ultra-processed foods was 721 ± 341 g/d (28% of total weight of food intake), whereas the intake of unprocessed and minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, and processed foods accounted for 57%, 1%, and 14%, respectively. During median follow-up of 5.4 y [IQR: 4.9-6.0 y], 129 (20%) RTRs died. In Cox regression analyses, ultra-processed foods were associated with all-cause mortality (HR per doubling of percentage of total weight: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.46, 3.10; P < 0.001), independently of potential confounders. This association was independent from the quality of the overall dietary pattern, expressed by the Mediterranean Diet Score (MDS) or Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) score. When analyzing ultra-processed foods by groups, only sugar-sweetened beverages (HR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.39; P = 0.007), desserts (HR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.49; P = 0.03), and processed meats (HR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.22, 2.86; P = 0.004) were associated with all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of ultra-processed foods, in particular sugar-sweetened beverages, desserts, and processed meats, is associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality after renal transplantation, independently of low adherence to high-quality dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02811835.

A qualitative exploration of the facilitators and barriers to self-management in kidney transplant recipients

Background

Understanding the behaviours that facilitate or impede one’s ability to self-manage is important to improve health-related outcomes in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Previous studies exploring the self-management experiences of KTRs have focused on specific tasks (e.g., medication adherence), age groups (e.g., adolescent or older recipients), or have been conducted outside of the UK where transferability of findings is unknown. Our study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of self-management in UK KTRs to identify facilitators and barriers associated with self-management tasks.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven KTRs. Topics explored included experiences of self-management tasks (diet, exercise, medications, stress management), perceived healthcare role, and future interventional approaches. Thematic analysis was used to identify and report themes.

Results

Eight themes were identified which were mapped onto the three self-management tasks described by Corbin and Strauss: medical, role and emotional management. Perceived facilitators to self-management were: gathering health-related knowledge, building relationships with healthcare professionals, creating routines within daily life, setting goals and identifying motivators, establishing support networks, and support from family and friends. Complexity of required treatment and adjusting to a new health status were perceived barriers to self-management.

Conclusions

Participants described the importance of collaborative consultations and continuity of care. Tailored interventions should identify individualised goals and motivators for participating in self-management. Education on effective strategies to manage symptoms and comorbidities could help alleviate KTRs’ perceived treatment burden. Family and peer support could emotionally support KTRs; however, managing the emotional burden of transplantation warrants more attention.

Graphic abstract

Standardized Phase Angle for Predicting Nutritional Status of Hemodialysis Patients in the Early Period After Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation

Background

This study was designed to verify whether early posttransplant standardized phase angle (SPhA) determines nutrition status of hemodialysis patients in regard to different nutritional markers and predicts handgrip strength (HGS) 6 months after kidney transplantation.

Methods

A total of 82 kidney transplant recipients on maintenance hemodialysis treatment entered the study. Nutritional status was evaluated before kidney transplantation, at the hospital discharge date, and 6 months after. We used bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), three different malnutrition screening tools, HGS, and anthropometric measurements. Demographic profiles and biochemical nutritional markers were collected. SPhA values, adjusted for age and BMI, were used in our study.

Results

In the early posttransplant period, kidney transplant recipients lost muscle mass, gained fat mass, and developed mostly negative SPhA, accompanied by significantly lower albumin levels. The subjects with lower than median (<-1.46) SPhA_dis [the SPhA (at discharge) adjusted for hospitalization time and the baseline SPhA] displayed lower values of albumin concentration (43.4 vs. 45.1 g/l, p = 0.010), hemoglobin (124 vs. 133 g/l, p = 0.016), GNRI (113 vs. 118, p = 0.041), and HGS (30 vs. 33 kg, p = 0.043). These patients had higher ferritin concentrations (420 vs. 258 mkmol/l, p = 0.026), longer inpatient stays (32 vs. 21 days, p < 0.001), and higher MIS scores (3 vs. 1, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

At the moment of hospital discharge, lower than the median SPhA is related to protein-energy wasting, represented as lower concentrations of nutrition biomarkers and an active inflammatory response. Higher SPhA before kidney transplantation predicts HGS 6 months after kidney transplantation, especially in women.

Nutritional and dietary interventions to prolong renal allograft survival after kidney transplantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Diet plays an important role in slowing progression of chronic kidney disease in native and transplanted kidneys. There is limited evidence on the association on dietary intake with renal allograft function. Mechanisms of major nutrients and dietary patterns with focusing on a plant-based diet related to kidney transplant health and longevity are reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

High dietary protein intake may adversely affect renal allograft. Low protein plant-focused diets such as Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, plant-dominant low-protein diet and Mediterranean diets appear associated with favorable outcomes in slowing renal allograft function decline. The mechanism may be related to a change in renal hemodynamic by decreasing glomerular hyperfiltration from low dietary protein intake and plant-based ingredients. Recent observational studies of association between dietary protein intake and kidney allograft outcomes are conflicting. Although strong evidence is still lacking, a low protein diet of 0.6-0.8 g/kg/day with at least 50% of the protein source from plant-based components in kidney transplant recipients with stable kidney allograft function should be considered as the dietary target.

SUMMARY

Dietary intervention with low-protein plant-focused meals may improve outcomes in kidney transplant recipients, but the evidence remains limited and further studies are warranted.

Dietary interventions on the prevention and management of diabetes in post-kidney transplantation - A systematic review

Post-transplant diabetes mellitus is associated with long-term immunosuppression and weight gain, and is related to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, accelerated loss of graft and increased mortality. There is an absence of strong evidence-based dietary guidelines for the prevention and management of post-transplant diabetes mellitus in kidney transplant recipients. The aim of this study was to systematically review all dietary evidence for kidney transplant recipients on clinical outcomes relating to diabetes, patient-reported outcomes and economic outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in August 2020 using the databases Medline, Embase, CENTRAL and CINAHL. Studies were critically appraised using Cochrane risk of bias tools and GRADE. A total of 12 studies and 1928 participants were included. Four papers focused on diet and exercise, one paper on diet only, two papers on magnesium supplementation, one paper on magnesium and fibre intake, two papers on Mediterranean diet, one paper on marine n-3 fatty acid supplementation and one paper on fruit and vegetable intake. There were no significant effects on outcomes relating to dietary counselling, magnesium supplementation, magnesium and fibre intake or marine n-3 fatty acid supplementation. Low-quality evidence supports the Mediterranean diet in reducing the risk of post-transplant diabetes mellitus and fasting plasma glucose levels. Low-quality evidence suggests vegetable intake being associated with a lower risk of post-transplant diabetes mellitus. This review demonstrates limited evidence for dietary interventions in the prevention and management of diabetes in post-kidney transplantation. The findings suggest that further high-quality research with robust study designs is required.

A Narrative Review of Dietary Approaches for Kidney Transplant Patients

A healthy eating pattern has proven to lower the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. However, there are sparse dietary recommendations for kidney transplant recipients, and the ones available focus only on single nutrients intake, such as sodium, potassium, and proteins, and not on the overall eating pattern. Considering that individuals do not typically consume nutrients in isolation, but as part of a complete dietary pattern, it is challenging for the average transplanted patient to understand and implement specific dietary recommendations. Also, single-nutrient interventions demonstrate largely inconclusive effects, and it seems improbable that they could have a strong enough impact on transplant outcomes. Dietary trends such as plant-based diets, intermittent fasting, low-carb diet/keto-diet, and juicing, have gained major attention from the media. Herein, we review the potential risks and benefits of these diets in kidney transplant recipients and provide an updated dietary recommendation for this population with consideration of current nutritional trends. Overall, the Mediterranean and DASH diets have demonstrated to be the most beneficial dietary patterns to the post kidney transplant population by focusing on less meat and processed foods, while increasing the intake of fresh foods and plant-based choices. We believe that to maintain a healthy lifestyle posttransplant, patients should be educated about the scientific evidence of different diets and choose a dietary pattern that is sustainable long-term.

Optimizing Diet to Slow CKD Progression

Due to the unique role of the kidney in the metabolism of nutrients, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) lose the ability to excrete solutes and maintain homeostasis. Nutrient intake modifications and monitoring of nutritional status in this population becomes critical, since it can affect important health outcomes, including progression to kidney failure, quality of life, morbidity, and mortality. Although there are multiple hemodynamic and metabolic factors involved in the progression and prognosis of CKD, nutritional interventions are a central component of the care of patients with non-dialysis CKD (ND-CKD) and of the prevention of overweight and possible protein energy-wasting. Here, we review the reno-protective effects of diet in adults with ND-CKD stages 3-5, including transplant patients.

Medical nutritional therapy for renal transplantation in the COVID-19 pandemic

Nutritional therapy is very important at renal transplantation. Nutrition has become more vital for transplantation patients owing to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Inadequate nutrition can negatively affect the immune system. For this reason, adequate protein and energy intake should be provided to the patients. Also, overconsumption of saturated fat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates can both negatively affect the immune system and trigger chronic diseases in transplantation patients. In addition, vitamins and minerals should be monitored and inadequacy should be prevented due to immunomodulatory effects. Applying nutritional therapy suitable for the symptoms of renal transplantation patients and preventing comorbidities may reduce the risk and severity of COVID-19 infection.

Development and validation of a risk score for the prediction of cardiovascular disease in living donor kidney transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of death in kidney transplant (KT) recipients. To improve their long-term survival, it is clinically important to estimate the risk of CVD after living donor KT via adequate pre-transplant CVD screening.

METHODS

A derivation cohort containing 331 KT recipients underwent living donor KT at Kyushu University Hospital from January 2006 to December 2012. A prediction model was retrospectively developed and risk scores were investigated via a Cox proportional hazards regression model. The discrimination and calibration capacities of the prediction model were estimated via the c-statistic and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test. External validation was estimated via the same statistical methods by applying the model to a validation cohort of 300 KT recipients who underwent living donor KT at Tokyo Women's Medical University Hospital.

RESULTS

In the derivation cohort, 28 patients (8.5%) had CVD events during the observation period. Recipient age, CVD history, diabetic nephropathy, dialysis vintage, serum albumin and proteinuria at 12 months after KT were significant predictors of CVD. A prediction model consisting of integer risk scores demonstrated good discrimination (c-statistic 0.88) and goodness of fit (Hosmer-Lemeshow test P = 0.18). In a validation cohort, the model demonstrated moderate discrimination (c-statistic 0.77) and goodness of fit (Hosmer-Lemeshow test P = 0.15), suggesting external validity.

CONCLUSIONS

The above-described simple model for predicting CVD after living donor KT was accurate and useful in clinical situations.

Comprehensive lifestyle modification as complementary therapy to prevent and manage post-transplant diabetes mellitus*

Post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is one from the most common metabolic complications after kidney transplantation. PTDM develops in the early period after transplantation. The risk factors of PTDM are carbohydrate imbalances occurring in the patient prior to transplantation, surgery and the inclusion of immunosuppressive treatment. Kidney transplant patients tend to gain weight, which is associated with an increased risk of post-transplant diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and abnormal transplanted kidney function. Patients after kidney transplantation should be advised to adopt a lifestyle based on a proper diet, exercise, weight control and smoking cessation. The strategy to reduce the risk factors for PTDM development should start before transplantation and continue after kidney transplantation. A targeted, non-pharmacological approach to patients already during the dialysis period may have a significant impact on reducing post-transplantation diabetes. Lifestyle interventions can effectively reduce the risk of development and inhibit the progression of post-transplantation diabetes. The article describes elements of comprehensive non-pharmacological management based on available knowledge of rehabilitation, dietetics and psychology.

Current Pharmacological Intervention and Medical Management for Diabetic Kidney Transplant Recipients

Hyperglycemia after kidney transplantation is common in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Both pretransplant and post-transplant diabetes mellitus are associated with increased kidney allograft failure and mortality. Glucose management may be challenging for kidney transplant recipients. The pathophysiology and pattern of hyperglycemia in patients following kidney transplantation is different from those with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In patients with pre-existing and post-transplant diabetes mellitus, there is limited data on the management of hyperglycemia after kidney transplantation. The following article discusses the nomenclature and diagnosis of pre- and post-transplant diabetes mellitus, the impact of transplant-related hyperglycemia on patient and kidney allograft outcomes, risk factors and potential pathogenic mechanisms of hyperglycemia after kidney transplantation, glucose management before and after transplantation, and modalities for prevention of post-transplant diabetes mellitus.

Kidney Allograft Fibrosis: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies

Interstitial fibrosis with tubule atrophy (IF/TA) is the response to virtually any sustained kidney injury and correlates inversely with kidney function and allograft survival. IF/TA is driven by various pathways that include hypoxia, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling, cellular rejection, inflammation and others. In this review we will focus on key pathways in the progress of renal fibrosis, diagnosis and therapy of allograft fibrosis. This review discusses the role and origin of myofibroblasts as matrix producing cells and therapeutic targets in renal fibrosis with a particular focus on renal allografts. We summarize current trends to use multi-omic approaches to identify new biomarkers for IF/TA detection and to predict allograft survival. Furthermore, we review current imaging strategies that might help to identify and follow-up IF/TA complementary or as alternative to invasive biopsies. We further discuss current clinical trials and therapeutic strategies to treat kidney fibrosis.Supplemental Visual Abstract; http://links.lww.com/TP/C141.

Urinary Excretion of N1-Methylnicotinamide and N1-Methyl-2-Pyridone-5-Carboxamide and Mortality in Kidney Transplant Recipients

It is unclear whether niacin nutritional status is a target for improvement of long-term outcome after renal transplantation. The 24-h urinary excretion of N¹-methylnicotinamide (N¹-MN), as a biomarker of niacin status, has previously been shown to be negatively associated with premature mortality in kidney transplant recipients (KTR). However, recent evidence implies higher enzymatic conversion of N¹-MN to N¹-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide (2Py) in KTR, therefore the need exists for interpretation of both N¹-MN and 2Py excretion for niacin status assessment. We assessed niacin status by means of the 24-h urinary excretion of the sum of N¹-MN and 2Py (N¹-MN + 2Py), and its associations with risk of premature mortality in KTR. N¹-MN + 2Py excretion was measured in a longitudinal cohort of 660 KTR with LS-MS/MS. Prospective associations of N¹-MN + 2Py excretion were investigated with Cox regression analyses. Median N¹-MN + 2Py excretion was 198.3 (155.9–269.4) µmol/day. During follow-up of 5.4 (4.7–6.1) years, 143 KTR died, of whom 40 due to an infectious disease. N¹-MN + 2Py excretion was negatively associated with risk of all-cause mortality (HR 0.61; 95% CI 0.47–0.79; p < 0.001), and infectious mortality specifically (HR 0.47; 95% CI 0.29–0.75; p = 0.002), independent of potential confounders. Secondary analyses showed effect modification of hs-CRP on the negative prospective association of N¹-MN + 2Py excretion, and sensitivity analyses showed negative and independent associations of N¹-MN and 2Py excretion with risk of all-cause mortality separately. These findings add further evidence to niacin status as a target for nutritional strategies for improvement of long-term outcome in KTR.

Nutrition Trends in Patients Over the Long Term After Kidney Transplantation

OBJECTIVES

Nutritional behaviors may exert important influence on morbidity and graft function in patients after kidney transplantation (KT). Nutritional status is closely related to potential risk factors of developing posttransplant complications, including diabetes mellitus, weight gain, and negative effects on immunosuppressive therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the dietary intake in patients after KT.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Nutritional intake of 154 (61 women and 93 men) patients was assessed based on a questionnaire regarding food intake (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, cholesterol, sugar, phosphorus, calorific value) within 3 working days preceding the routine outpatient posttransplant visit. Patient medical history, concomitant medications, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was obtained from medical charts.

RESULTS

The mean age (years) ± SD of patients was 51.9 ± 14.1. The patients were evaluated 94 ± 67 months after KT, with a median eGFR of 53 (range, 41.2-64.1) mL/min/1.73 m². Sixty-two percent of patients had increased body mass index values. The mean total energy intake was 2159.4 ± 551.9 kcal/day. The patients reported elevated salt (8.5 ± 2.4 g per day) and fat intake (99.4 ± 3.2 g per day) including 57% saturated fatty acids. The patients consumed products containing high amounts of sugars (108.2 ± 107.0 g per day), carbohydrates (238.3 ± 64.3 g per day), and cholesterol (303.6 ± 11.1 mg per day). The diet among kidney recipients consisted predominantly of fats, meat, cured meat, and sweets.

CONCLUSIONS

The nutritional behaviors of patients after KT are in most cases poor. Improvement of eating habits in these patients seems to be a simple method to preserve kidney function over the long term.

Lifestyle, Inflammation, and Vascular Calcification in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Perspectives on Long-Term Outcomes

After decades of pioneering and improvement, kidney transplantation is now the renal replacement therapy of choice for most patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Where focus has traditionally been on surgical techniques and immunosuppressive treatment with prevention of rejection and infection in relation to short-term outcomes, nowadays, so many people are long-living with a transplanted kidney that lifestyle, including diet and exposure to toxic contaminants, also becomes of importance for the kidney transplantation field. Beyond hazards of immunological nature, a systematic assessment of potentially modifiable-yet rather overlooked-risk factors for late graft failure and excess cardiovascular risk may reveal novel targets for clinical intervention to optimize long-term health and downturn current rates of premature death of kidney transplant recipients (KTR). It should also be realized that while kidney transplantation aims to restore kidney function, it incompletely mitigates mechanisms of disease such as chronic low-grade inflammation with persistent redox imbalance and deregulated mineral and bone metabolism. While the vicious circle between inflammation and oxidative stress as common final pathway of a multitude of insults plays an established pathological role in native chronic kidney disease, its characterization post-kidney transplant remains less than satisfactory. Next to chronic inflammatory status, markedly accelerated vascular calcification persists after kidney transplantation and is likewise suggested a major independent mechanism, whose mitigation may counterbalance the excess risk of cardiovascular disease post-kidney transplant. Hereby, we first discuss modifiable dietary elements and toxic environmental contaminants that may explain increased risk of cardiovascular mortality and late graft failure in KTR. Next, we specify laboratory and clinical readouts, with a postulated role within persisting mechanisms of disease post-kidney transplantation (i.e., inflammation and redox imbalance and vascular calcification), as potential non-traditional risk factors for adverse long-term outcomes in KTR. Reflection on these current research opportunities is warranted among the research and clinical kidney transplantation community.

Post-Transplantation Diabetes Mellitus

Solid organ transplantation (SOT) is an established therapeutic option for chronic disease resulting from end-stage organ dysfunction. Long-term use of immunosuppression is associated with post-transplantation diabetes mellitus (PTDM), placing patients at increased risk of infections, cardiovascular disease and mortality. The incidence rates for PTDM have varied from 10 to 40% between different studies. Diagnostic criteria have evolved over the years, as a greater understating of PTDM has been reached. There are differences in pathophysiology and clinical course of type 2 diabetes and PTDM. Hence, managing this condition can be a challenge for a diabetes physician, as there are several factors to consider when tailoring therapy for post-transplant patients to achieve better glycaemic as well as long-term transplant outcomes. This article is a detailed review of PTDM, examining the pathogenesis, diagnostic criteria and management in light of the current evidence. The therapeutic options are discussed in the context of their safety and potential drug-drug interactions with immunosuppressive agents.

Nutritional Intervention Process for a Patient with Kidney Transplantation: a Case Report

Renal transplantation is one of the renal replacement therapies for patients with end-stage renal disease. The number of patients who receive renal transplantation is continuously increasing, and the use of immunosuppressive drugs that are essential after transplantation requires continuous nutritional management. In the early post-transplantation period, sufficient supply of nutrition in consideration of the increase in metabolic demand is necessary. The long-term nutritional management after transplantation requires nutritional interventions to prevent obesity, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, and osteoporosis, which are the adverse effects associated with the use of immunosuppressive drugs. Department of Dietetics in Samsung Medical Center has been engaging with patients to conduct them about initial nutritional assessment and reassessment, description of therapeutic diet, nutrition education for kidney transplantation, and follow-up education after discharge. Nutritional intervention of kidney transplant patients should be carried out according to the post-transplantation period and the nutritional status of the patient. It is necessary to perform patient management according to the planned process.