What is an important factor in managing mineral balance in CKD patients?

In managing mineral balance in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), monitoring and adjusting potassium and phosphorus intake is crucial due to the kidneys' reduced ability to excrete these minerals effectively. This impairment can lead to imbalances that cause serious complications, such as hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels), which can affect cardiac function, and hyperphosphatemia (elevated phosphorus levels), which can lead to bone and mineral disorders.

Potassium intake must be carefully managed as CKD progresses, since high levels of potassium can result in dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Additionally, phosphorus levels need to be regulated to prevent bone disease and calcification of vascular structures, conditions common in CKD due to altered metabolism of these minerals.

The other options would not effectively address the needs of CKD patients. Increasing calcium and phosphorus intake can exacerbate hyperphosphatemia and related bone disorders. Restricting all mineral sources is impractical and could lead to deficiencies that impact overall health. Maximizing sodium intake is inappropriate, especially since it could worsen fluid retention and hypertension, further burdening the kidneys. Therefore, carefully monitoring and adjusting both potassium and phosphorus is key to maintaining mineral balance in this population.