A diet emphasizing plant-based foods and sustainability-the EAT-Lancet diet-may lower the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), according to a new study of nearly 180,000 people. But genetics and even where you live seem to play a role in how much benefit you get.
Large-scale UK Biobank data show that the EAT-Lancet planetary health diet is associated wiht lower CKD risk, with genetics, green space, and molecular signatures shaping who benefits most.
- Chronic kidney disease is a growing global health problem, expected to be the fifth leading cause of death by 2040.
- Following the EAT-Lancet diet-rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains-was linked to a roughly 6-9% reduction in CKD risk.
- genetic factors and access to green spaces appear to influence how well the diet protects kidney health.
- the diet’s benefits may be tied to specific metabolic and protein changes in the body.
Can a specific way of eating really impact your kidney health? Yes, research suggests dietary choices are a key, modifiable risk factor for chronic kidney disease, and the EAT-Lancet diet shows promise as a preventative measure.
Diet Quality: A Powerful Tool Against Kidney Disease
Around 10% of adults worldwide currently live with chronic kidney disease. Scientists predict a significant rise in cases, making prevention a critical focus. Several dietary approaches-like the DASH diet, the Mediterranean diet, and plant-based eating-have been studied for their potential to reduce CKD risk, largely due to their anti-inflammatory effects and emphasis on whole foods.
How the UK Biobank Study Worked
researchers analyzed data from 179,508 participants in the UK biobank, a large-scale study tracking health details from residents of England, Scotland, and Wales. Participants, who were initially free of CKD, completed detailed questionnaires about their food intake