What Fruit Is Good for Kidneys?
Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and other nutrients can help promote kidney health.
If you have kidney disease, a variety of fruits can be beneficial to include in your diet as long as they don’t contain excessive amounts of potassium and phosphorus.
Strawberries
- Contain two types of phenols, anthocyanins and ellagitannins, which improve kidney function.
- Rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative damage.
- Great source of vitamin C, manganese and fiber.
- Contain anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties that promote overall good health.
Cranberries
- Loaded with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which are beneficial for people suffering from kidney ailments or UTIs.
Blueberries
- 1 cup of blueberries contains 114 grams potassium and 18 milligrams phosphorus.
- High in antioxidants and phytonutrients called anthocyanidins, which reduce inflammation and promote renal and kidney health.
- Good source of vitamin C and manganese, which are good for bones and skin and help reduce signs of aging.
Raspberries
- Enriched with phytonutrients called ellagic acid, which help neutralize free radicals in the body and prevent cell damage.
- Contain flavonoids, which are good for improving kidney function and can reduce the growth of cancer cells.
- Excellent source of manganese, vitamin B and C, fiber and folate.
Apples
- 1 medium-sized apple has 195 milligrams potassium and 20 milligrams phosphorus.
- May help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels and ease constipation.
- Anti-inflammatory properties and high fiber content, which help improve kidney function.
Grapes
- 1 cup of grapes contains 288 milligrams potassium and 30 milligrams phosphorus
- Good source of vitamins C and K (low levels of these vitamins are linked to kidney disease).
- High in fiber and contains small amounts of minerals like copper, manganese and magnesium.
Pineapples
- Low-potassium food option that helps lower blood pressure, which is a common complication of severe kidney disease.
- Contains bromelain, a digestive enzyme helps dissolve kidney stones in the body.
- High in fiber and supports heart health (heart complications are common in people undergoing dialysis).
- Good source of vitamin C boost, which helps boost the immune system.
Citrus fruits
The more vitamin C in your diet, the better for your kidneys. Oranges, lemons and other citrus fruits contain vitamin C in abundance. Consuming dilute lemon juice daily may help decrease the risk of kidney stone formation.
Other fruits
Other fruits that may be recommended for promoting kidney health include:
- Pears
- Peaches
- Clementines
- Nectarines
- Mandarins
- Plums
- Satsumas
- Watermelon
- Cherries
How much fruit should you include in your diet?
Since appropriate portion sizes vary from person to person, talk to your doctor or dietitian for recommendations on how much fruit to include in your diet to avoid consuming excessive amounts of these minerals.