5 fruits to boost kidney health

To promote kidney health, especially for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), consuming certain fruits like apples, blueberries, strawberries, cherries, and pears can be highly beneficial. Dr. Dao Thi Yen Thuy, Head of Nutrition and Dietetics at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasizes that CKD patients must carefully manage their intake of potassium, sodium, and phosphorus to lessen the burden on their kidneys. She also advises prioritizing fruits rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Here are five fruits recommended for kidney health:

Apples: Apples are free of sodium and contain moderate amounts of potassium (around 158 mg per fruit) and phosphorus (10 mg). They are particularly rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar, and control risk factors that could negatively impact kidney function.

Blueberries: These berries are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that shield kidney cells from damage caused by free radicals. A 50-gram serving of blueberries contains low levels of potassium (65 mg), sodium (4 mg), and phosphorus (7 mg), making them a suitable choice for kidney patients.

Strawberries: Strawberries are loaded with anthocyanins, vitamin C, and manganese, all of which boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and enhance kidney function. A 50-gram serving (about 5 fresh strawberries) provides minimal sodium (1 mg), 120 mg of potassium, and 13 mg of phosphorus, making them beneficial for kidney health.

Cherries: Cherries offer anti-inflammatory benefits due to their phytochemicals and antioxidants, which also neutralize free radicals and protect cells. Their low levels of potassium, sodium, and phosphorus make them a healthy and palatable option for those managing kidney disease.

Pears: Pears are an excellent choice for kidney patients due to their mild sweetness, hydrating properties, and ease of digestion, along with their low potassium and phosphorus content. A 100-gram serving of ripe pears contains approximately 119 mg of potassium and is low in sodium and phosphorus. Pears also provide soluble fiber like pectin, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which aid digestion, support heart health, and protect kidney cells from oxidative damage.

Dr. Thuy stresses the importance of a strict diet for kidney patients to reduce the workload on their kidneys. This includes limiting high-potassium foods such as bananas, oranges, ripe mangoes, sweet potatoes, and avocados, as well as minimizing salt and strong seasonings. Processed and overly salty foods should be avoided. She also recommends consuming smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overloading the digestive and renal systems.

Patients must also maintain appropriate hydration levels, avoiding both excessive water intake that could lead to swelling and insufficient intake that could cause dehydration and kidney damage. Regular medical check-ups are crucial to monitor kidney function and blood electrolyte levels. Based on these evaluations, doctors can tailor recommendations for the type and quantity of fruits to effectively manage potassium, sodium, and phosphorus levels for each individual.