What are the consequences of malnutrition in patients with chronic kidney disease?

Malnutrition in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) can significantly impact their overall health and progression of the disease. One of the primary consequences of malnutrition is the worsening of kidney function. Inadequate nutritional intake can lead to a decline in muscle mass, weakness, and overall body deterioration, all of which can place additional strain on the kidneys. Malnourished patients may have an increased inflammatory response, which can further impair kidney function. Moreover, proper nutrition is essential for metabolic processes, and deficiencies can indirectly contribute to a decrease in kidney performance over time.

In contrast, the other options present outcomes that are generally not associated with malnutrition in CKD. Increased energy levels, improved immune response, and decreased dependency on dialysis are not typically observed in malnourished patients. Instead, malnutrition tends to have the opposite effects, leading to fatigue, compromised immunity, and a potential increase in the need for dialysis as kidney function declines further.