Single Nutrient/Food versus
Dietary Pattern & Lifestyle Approach 

Much of the dietary advice given to patients living with CKD is focused on single nutrients and food restrictions in order to manage blood levels of phosphorus, calcium, potassium and others. However, emerging evidence indicates that overall eating patterns rather than single restrictions may better predict clinical outcomes including quality of life. (9-11)
 

Nutrients are ingested as mixtures, thus, the physiological effect of a nutrient may be modified by its interaction with other components within a food item or other foods eaten during a meal. It is also important to pay attention to cooking methods and overall diet nutrient profile when designing eating plans meant to address the specific nutritional needs of a patient with the ultimately goal of achieving an optimal health status and quality of life.