SUBANG JAYA, Oct 10 — Obesity and the excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) pose a risk to kidney function, thereby increasing the likelihood of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Sunway Medical Centre Nephrologist and Kidney Transplant Physician Dr Rosnawati Yahya stated that obesity is a primary factor increasing CKD risk, in addition to causing complications related to the heart and body metabolism.
“Obesity is not assessed solely based on Body Mass Index (BMI); it also takes into account muscle composition, fat, fluid levels, and nutritional status to evaluate the patient's condition more comprehensively.
“Therefore, healthy eating and physical activity are crucial in reducing risk; this includes maintaining a balanced diet and limiting the intake of salt, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed foods,” she said.
She made these remarks during the Renal Nutrition 2026 (RNC2026) conference held at the Grand Dorsett Hotel Subang Jaya here today.
Dr Rosnawati also added that CKD management requires a multidisciplinary approach involving doctors, nurses, dietitians, and other health professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
According to Monash University Professor of Dietetics Prof Dr Tilakavati Karupiah, changes in the food industry have influenced how society obtains and consumes food, making it more convenient, faster, and readily available.
She explained that ultra-processed foods differ from traditional foods as they undergo industrial formulation, contain various additives, and have a longer shelf life.
“Taste, convenience, and price are among the factors driving people to consume excessive amounts of ultra-processed foods, especially when such foods are easily accessible and serve as a practical choice in daily life.
“The consumption of ultra-processed foods is also linked to metabolic factors and chronic diseases that can affect kidney health, while high intake is frequently associated with an increased risk of CKD,” she said.
The conference also featured sessions on obesity management across CKD stages, as well as ultra-processed food consumption and its impact on kidney health.
Themed ‘Translating Nutritional Evidence into Kidney Patient Care,’ RNC 2026 held today and tomorrow brings together 450 healthcare professionals, including nephrologists, dietitians, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals.
