The incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased worldwide in recent years. Many factors can contribute to the progression of CKD, some of which are dietary patterns. Adequate control of protein, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium intake can significantly slow the progression of CKD. Most studies and nutritional guidelines addressing the care of people with CKD have focused primarily on dietary recommendations regarding macronutrient intake and the restriction of individual micronutrients. Traditionally, the consumption of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables has been restricted in patients with CKD to combat hyperkalemia. Among the reasons often given for this restriction are concerns about their high potassium and phosphorus contents. Limiting the intake of whole grains in CKD patients has also been recommended. However, findings indicate that phosphorus in plant foods is not fully absorbed in humans. Potassium contribution from vegetables can be reduced by culinary treatments, and when highly insoluble fiber is present in vegetables, it promotes potassium excretion through the intestine, which could help control the risk of hyperkalemia in CKD patients. Other recent findings have shown beneficial effects of vegetable bioactive compounds and resistant starch on CKD patients. The aim of the present review was to compile and discuss traditional recommendations for the use of plant-based foods for patients with CKD, as well as the mechanisms through which such foods may contribute to improving CKD progression.

Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is a prevalent metabolic disease with a strong association with cardiovascular complications. This study evaluated glycemic control and lipid profiles (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides) in patients with T2D, based on glycated hemoglobin and fasting glucose levels, through a cross-sectional analysis of 4814 individuals (mean age: 66.2 ± 16.07 years with normal distribution; 51.5% male) from the Hospital Universitario Lucus Augusti in Northwest Spain. The aim was to assess the metabolic differences and potential influences of age, sex, and geographic setting. We observed that patients with T2D had lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, but higher triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels compared to patients without T2D. A positive correlation was found between age and fasting glucose levels (r = 0.182; p < 0.05), with the highest glucose concentrations occurring in postmenopausal women. No significant differences were observed between rural and urban participants. These findings support the integration of targeted nutritional strategies and education programs in the clinical management of T2D, particularly in older adults.