Dietary intake patterns and nutritional adequacy in older adults with predialysis chronic kidney disease: a comparison by diabetes status

OBJECTIVE: Nutritional management is essential in caring for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), older adults at higher risk of malnutrition and comorbidities. However, data on actual dietary intake patterns in older adults with predialysis CKD, especially by diabetes mellitus (DM) status, remain limited. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 106 patients aged ≥65 years with CKD stage G3a or higher, divided into DM (n=67) and non-DM (n=39) groups. Dietary intake was assessed using a single 24-hour recall. Nutrient and food-group intakes were compared with recommended levels. RESULTS: In both groups, energy intake was lower than recommended levels. More than half of the participants exceeded sodium limits, and approximately half consumed excess protein. Patients with DM had significantly higher protein intake and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels than those without DM. Most food groups, except protein foods, were consumed below recommended levels. CONCLUSION: Dietary patterns in older adults with predialysis CKD showed low energy intake, high sodium intake, and relatively high protein intake. Those with DM had higher protein intake and BUN levels, suggesting dietary differences by diabetes status. These findings underscore the need for age-sensitive, individualized nutritional management strategies that consider kidney function and DM status.