As chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses, the requirements and utilization of different nutrients change substantially. These changes are accompanied by multiple nutritional and metabolic abnormalities that are observed in the continuum of kidney disease. To provide optimal care to patients with CKD, it is essential to have an understanding of the applicable nutritional principles: methods to assess nutritional status, establish patient-specific dietary needs, and prevent or treat potential or ongoing nutritional deficiencies and derangements.