Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a lifelong condition that cannot be cured unless the patient undergoes kidney transplant. However, there are steps that patients can take to slow down the progression and live longer without complications and invasive therapies. One important consideration is dietary modification i.e., switching to renal diet. This has been proven to help in improving the Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) of patients which is the basis of kidney function. This switch, however, does not come easy and requires major adjustments on the side of the patients.

This study explored the psychological experiences of CKD patients in their diet switch, the factors that hinder the smooth transition to renal diet, the factors that assist, and ultimately, proposed psychosocial steps that can be taken to improve patient distress and assist them in the adjustments. 

The participants were Stage 3 to 4 CKD patients who were not in dialysis, 40-60 years old, under medication regimen, and were based in the Luzon area of the Philippines. They and their caregivers were interviewed using a researcher-made interview guide. The answers were thematically analyzed and utilized as basis for recommendations. 

The importance of family involvement in food planning, cooking, preparation, and dining; having a consistent and legitimate source of information surrounding diet; and the use of reinforcements, was highlighted in the study.