Good Fruits for Kidney Disease | Managing Your CKD Diet

1. Berries (all types): Low in potassium and high in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, berries are low in sugar when they are consumed in modest portions, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes.
   Suggested recipe: Creamy Blueberry-Pecan Overnight Oatmeal
2. Lemons and limes: Low in potassium and high in vitamin C, lemons and limes have a lower sugar content when consumed in a modest amount. They can be used in cooking instead of salt to bring out the natural flavors of a dish.
   Suggested recipe: Lemon Orzo Spring Salad
3. Pineapples: Low in potassium, pineapples contain bromelain, a plant enzyme that has anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce swelling and pain in your joints.
   Suggested recipe: Vegan Smoothie Bowl
4. Apples: Low in potassium and rich in fiber and vitamin C, apples also contain plant polyphenols, which are disease-fighting compounds found in plants.
   Suggested recipe: Apple and Cheddar with Jalapeño Slices
5. Cherries: High in fiber and vitamin C and rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, cherries may also lessen the symptoms of gout, which can be a concern for people with CKD.²
6. Grapes: High in vitamin K, grapes are also a good source of B vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, and B6. B vitamins can increase your energy.
7. Watermelon: While most melons are high in potassium, watermelon is a low-potassium fruit. It is also high in vitamins A and C, magnesium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Watermelon can contribute a significant amount of natural sugar and fluid to your diet, so stick to a 1/2 cup serving if you are watching your fluid.
   Suggested recipe: Watermelon, Cucumber and Feta Salad
8. Avocados: Although high in fiber, magnesium, and healthy monounsaturated fats—which lower LDL cholesterol—avocados should only be eaten in small portions because they’re high in potassium.
   Suggested Recipe: Egg Salad Avocado Toast

Fruits sometimes get a bad rap because of their potassium content, which some people living with CKD have to limit. While some fruits do have high potassium, you can still enjoy many of them in small portions so you can benefit from their nutrients while keeping your potassium level under control. Your own potassium level will determine if you need to be more careful when selecting the best fruits for you.

References

¹Dreher ML. Whole Fruits and Fruit Fiber Emerging Health Effects. Nutrients. 2018;10(12):1833. doi:10.3390/nu10121833

² Collins MW, Saag KG, Singh JA. Is there a role for cherries in the management of gout? Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis. 2019;11. doi:10.1177/1759720x19847018

³National Kidney Foundation. Why You Should Avoid Eating Starfruit. Accessed March 2, 2022. kidney.org/atoz/content/why-you-should-avoid-eating-starfruit .