Pitstop: Congress Cares about Kidneys: Unpacking the recent congressional hearing about kidney health

Plant-based Enteral Formulas for People with CKD

Plant-based nutrition has emerged as an important component of kidney care, but questions remain about how plant-based enteral formulas can best support people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pit Stop, host Dr. Raphy Rosen is joined by Brandon Kistler, PhD, RD, and Rachel Wontor, MS, RDN, CD, CNSC, to explore the growing role of plant-based enteral nutrition in clinical practice. The discussion examines the key features of plant-based formulas, including standard, renal-specific, peptide, and specialty options, and reviews how these products compare with traditional formulas in meeting nutritional needs. The panel also discusses when renal formulas may or may not be necessary, current evidence related to effectiveness and patient acceptance, insurance coverage considerations, and practical approaches for implementing plant-based enteral nutrition in healthcare settings. Clinicians will gain actionable insights to help support individualized nutrition care for people with CKD. After listening to the podcast, please take a moment to complete the quick survey at https://nkf.jotform.com/261534175734863 [https://nkf.jotform.com/261534175734863]

Hidden Phosphorus: Understanding Phosphate Additives in Food

Phosphate additives are commonly used in processed and convenience foods, yet many patients and healthcare professionals remain unaware of how significantly they contribute to phosphorus burden in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Elevated phosphorus levels can negatively impact bone, cardiovascular, and overall kidney health, making phosphorus management an important aspect of kidney care. In this episode of Kidney Commute, an interprofessional panel featuring a nephrologist, dietitian, policy expert, and patient advocate discusses the clinical impact of phosphate additives, the differences between naturally occurring phosphorus and additive-based phosphorus, and the practical challenges patients face when trying to identify hidden phosphorus sources in foods and medications. The discussion also explores socioeconomic barriers, food labeling limitations, and ongoing policy and advocacy efforts aimed at improving phosphorus transparency and patient education. Listeners will gain practical strategies and insights to better support phosphorus management in clinical practice and daily life.

Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Optimizing Management of IgAN and IgAV

IgA nephropathy and IgA vasculitis remain complex and evolving areas in nephrology care. In this episode, experts discuss key insights from the KDIGO guidelines and KDOQI commentary published in AJKD, focusing on updated approaches to risk stratification, disease progression, and treatment decision making. The conversation highlights the role of supportive care, immunosuppressive therapy considerations, and emerging therapeutic options, while addressing variability in clinical practice and patient management challenges. This episode provides practical, evidence based perspectives to help clinicians navigate the nuances of IgAN and IgAV care and apply guideline recommendations in real world settings. Please view the AJKD article here [https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00842-5/pdf].

Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Improving Anemia Management in CKD

Anemia in chronic kidney disease remains common, complex, and rapidly evolving. In this episode, experts discuss key updates from the 2026 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guidelines and AJKD commentary, including a stronger focus on identifying and treating iron deficiency and refining treatment strategies. The conversation explores the clinical impact of anemia on cardiovascular risk and quality of life, reviews evidence supporting proactive IV iron use, and examines emerging therapies such as HIF stabilizers. The panel also addresses real world challenges in managing anemia, particularly in non dialysis CKD populations, where access, adherence, and care coordination play a critical role. This episode provides practical insights to support individualized, evidence based anemia care. Please click here [https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00841-3/fulltext] to access the commentary.

Pitstop: Congress Cares about Kidneys: Unpacking the recent congressional hearing about kidney health

Kidney care rarely takes center stage in Congress, but a recent hearing is bringing renewed attention to prevention, innovation, and patient access. In this episode, host Raphy Rosen is joined by Dr. Suzanne Watnick, who testified as a witness at the March 18 Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing, along with Dr. Dan Weiner. Together, they unpack key themes across CKD, dialysis, and transplantation, and explore what emerging legislative efforts could mean for patients and providers. Tune in for an inside look at how kidney care is shaping national health policy.