The Nutrition and Health? series of books have, as an overriding mission, to provide health professionals with texts that are considered essential because each includes: (1) a synthesis of the state of the science, (2) timely, in-depth reviews by the leading researchers in their respective fields, (3) extensive, up-to-date fully annotated reference lists, (4) a detailed index, (5) relevant tables and figures, (6) identi- cation of paradigm shifts and the consequences, (7) virtually no overlap of information between chapters, but targeted, inter-chapter referrals, (8) suggestions of areas for future research, and (9) balanced, data-driven answers to patient /health professional questions that are based upon the totality of evidence rather than the findings of any single study. The series volumes are not the outcome of a symposium. Rather, each editor has the potential to examine a chosen area with a broad perspective, both in subject matter as well as in the choice of chapter authors. The international perspective, especially with regard to public health initiatives, is emphasized where appropriate. The editors, whose trainings are both research and practice oriented, have the opportunity to develop a primary objective for their book, define the scope and focus, and then invite the leading authorities from around the world to be part of their initiative. The authors are encouraged to provide an overview of the field, discuss their own research, and relate the research findings to potential human health consequences.

The field of kidney disease has evolved over the years to encompass a broad and sophisticated knowledge base. There has been a proliferation of scientific information and technical advances in the field. In Nutrition in Kidney Disease, the authors provide a comprehensive perspective of the emerging science in nutrition in kidney disease. This important book is written by a collaborative group of distinguished dietitians and physicians in the specialized field of kidney disease and clinical nutrition, who have devoted their careers to the care of patients with kidney disease.  At the end of key chapters, case studies assess knowledge of the subject within the context of didactic curriculums.

Part I addresses kidney function in health and disease. Parts II and III provide in-depth information on the prevention of common disorders associated with chronic kidney disease, current treatment options based on the latest scientific evidence, and management, while Part IV presents the nutrition concerns of special needs populations. Part V addresses additional nutritional concerns in kidney disease such as complementary and alternative medicine, cultural issues affecting dietary adherence, and outcomes research.

Nutrition in Kidney Disease provides today's most valuable reference as well as operative tool for the practicing clinician in the fields of nutrition and nephrology, as well as other disciplines whose research, practice, and education include nutrition.

From the reviews:

"This comprehensive book focuses on preventive and therapeutic nutrition approaches to kidney disease through-out the lifespan, perfectly arranged into five sections covering fundamentals, chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 1-4, CKD stage 5, nutritional needs, and nutrition extras including supplements, nutrition behavior, outcomes research, and resources. Each chapter includes learning objectives, a concise introduction, well organized, clearly presented subject matter, and summary. The book also includes 11 practical case studies. This is an excellent addition to The Nutrition and Health series because it targets chronic kidney disease, a major public health concern. It is truly a synthesis of state-of-the-art science, providing information on epidemiology, pathophysiology, metabolism, and diet therapy for kidney disease. This is an outstanding resource for healthcare professionals in academia and/or clinical practice, nutrition and allied health and medical students, nephrologists and educators. The editors are internationally recognized leaders who have designed this book to address key concepts of kidney disease and related interactions with kidney function, diet, obesity, heart disease, immune disease, renal replacement therapy, transplantation, aging, supplementation, and diabetes. They have selected specialized dieticians, professors, and physicians to author chapters." (Karen R Kritsch, PhD, RD, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics)

"Perhaps the greatest strength of the work is the practical nature of the material. A beginner will gain general knowledge, while a more experienced practitioner will walk away with a helpful look at practical applications. I felt that the third section was the strongest and addressed issues not commonly covered in book format. The information was also current, and a wealth of resources was offered at the end of each chapter for further study. It is hard to provideinformation for both the beginner and the experienced reader, but the format of this book allows for both. Granted, the experienced will need to chase the references and dig deeper, but the information is there for the taking. Another useful feature is the case studies presented throughout the book. These allow the reader to better understand practical applications of the material.
I believe that this work is a necessary addition to the library of any working health care professional in the field of nutrition and kidney disease. It would also be a great reference for dietitians, since they are likely to encounter some of the issues covered within the work. I was intrigued and will check out the other books in this series." (Tanya Marr, MS, RD, LD, Transplant Nutrition Specialist for the Baylor Regional Transplant Institute at Baylor All Saints Medical Center, Fort Worth,TX)