Future Directions
Based on the findings from this topical review, researchers may consider the following suggestions for future research.
Study Duration: Studies with >6-month follow-up should be conducted to investigate the long-term implications of plant-based diets on CKD outcomes.
Population Diversity: As with most nutrition research, predominantly mid-aged Caucasian females make up the majority of sample sizes. Studies should prioritize racial and gender differences across outcomes related to the effects of plant-based diets on CKD.
Effect of Protein Type: Randomized controlled trials should be conducted to compare the effect of protein type on inflammation markers among people with CKD.
Type of Plant Foods: Future research should determine if differences exist between the effects of whole plant foods (i.e., fruits, vegetables, grains) and processed plant foods (i.e., soy or pea protein-based foods) on CKD outcomes.