Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which is not a standard recommendation for individuals with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 1-4?

1. Restricting foods high in vitamin K

2. Maintaining good glycemic control

3. Blood pressure management through the use of ACE inhibitors or ARB medications

4. Abstaining from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

The correct answer is: Restricting foods high in vitamin K

Restricting foods high in vitamin K is not a standard recommendation for individuals with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 1-4. While vitamin K is essential for various bodily functions, including blood clotting, there is no direct evidence suggesting that individuals in these stages of CKD need to avoid vitamin K in their diet unless they are on anticoagulant therapy, such as warfarin, which requires monitoring of vitamin K intake. Most clinical guidelines focused on CKD management prioritize glycemic control, blood pressure management, and avoidance of nephrotoxic agents like NSAIDs to protect kidney function and minimize complications. Maintaining good glycemic control is crucial for individuals with diabetes and CKD, as poor glucose management can worsen kidney function. Blood pressure management, especially with ACE inhibitors or ARBs, is standard practice because these medications not only lower blood pressure but also provide renal protective benefits. Abstaining from NSAIDs is recommended due to their potential to cause further kidney damage, especially in individuals with compromised renal function.