Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition affecting approximately 10% of adults worldwide. The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional status and lifestyle of patients with CKD and compare their dietary habits with the results of a study conducted by the National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ). The study involved 199 kidney patients (stages 1–5), and included anthropometric measurements, dietary analysis, and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) assessments. The study was conducted at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, in the outpatient clinic (Njegoševa cesta 4, 1000 Ljubljana). During their wait for a consultation, patients were asked to complete a food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, the stand-up-sit test, handgrip strength test, BIA measurement, and MEDAS questionnaire were then conducted. The results indicated that most CKD patients follow unhealthy dietary patterns, including excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates, sweets, and red meat, while fruit and vegetable intake was insufficient. Furthermore, adherence to the Mediterranean diet was low, with only 0,5% of patients achieving high adherence to the guidelines. The study also highlighted the importance of physical activity, as 75% of patients met the recommendation for 150 minutes of weekly aerobic exercise. However, only 28% regularly performed strength training exercises, which are essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall functionality in CKD patients. This research emphasizes the need for comprehensive lifestyle changes, including personalized dietary recommendations, regular physical activity, and multidisciplinary care involving nephrologists, dietitians, kinesiologists, and psychologists. Behaviour change models targeting key lifestyle factors could be effective tools for improving health outcomes and slowing disease progression.
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