The problem
Obesity contributes to kidney function decline through inflammation, insulin resistance and altered feedback mechanisms in the kidneys. Our team leads a research program investigating both the mechanisms of obesity related kidney damage and effective treatments using diet and exercise as foundational therapy. Top research priorities voiced by patients, caregivers, clinicians and policymakers are for effective interventions to treat CKD including evidence for diet and physical activity interventions to slow CKD progression.
Summary of the research
This program of work studied the benefits of weight loss interventions in people with the double burden of obesity and CKD and identified the need for novel interventions in this population. Using mixed methods research with our consumers, we developed a new diet using real foods and meal replacements to induce weight loss, then supported our participants through the transition to healthy eating and increasing exercise using a remotely delivered support program, tailored to individual preferences. Our results showed weight loss of 10% of body weight, which is the same as some of the GLP1RA medications, and participants reported benefits beyond weight loss such as being able to work more, do their favourite activities and a healthier relationship with food.
The impact
The RBWH Dietetics Team are celebrating the results of recent clinical trials that show a trend toward improved kidney function and reduced systolic blood pressure as part of a low energy diet.
The trial focused on the feasibility and safety of using food, meal replacements and exercise in a large trial to slow kidney disease progression.
This intervention is safe and feasible to scale up into a larger trial to determine the effect on slowing down kidney function decline, Low energy diets using a combination of real food and meal replacement products are effective for weight loss and are safe in people with CKD, when supported by healthcare professionals.
- Read more in this news story RBWH research brings hope for those with kidney disease.
- You can also read the full study on Kidney International Reports.
Our Cochrane systematic review provides evidence for other researchers to promote the effects of weight loss and obesity treatment on risk factors for kidney disease progression – cited in the KDIGO report The relationship between obesity and chronic kidney disease: conclusions from a Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Controversies Conference and in the 2025 Lancet Seminar on Chronic kidney disease.
Our researchers
Assoc Prof Helen MacLaughlin (RBWH and QUT), Marguerite Conley (Metro South Health and QUT), Dr Hannah Mayr (Metro South Health and UQ), Dr Jaimon Kelly, UQ), Prof David Johnson (Metro South and UQ), Dr Andrea Viecelli (UQ).