How blueberries are beneficial for CKD patients?

Blueberries are amongst the best fruits high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Blueberries are kidney-friendly fruits that every chronic kidney disease patient should buy and include in his diet. Not only they are healthy, but they are the sweetest of the fruits. Recent research has shown that antioxidants from berries help attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidneys may sometimes result in impaired kidney function; this is why berries are very good for one and all.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy this delicious and yummy fruit. Being low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium are some of the qualities of this kidney-friendly fruit. Some other anti-oxidant fruits preferably good for kidney patients are as follow:

• Berries
• Garlic
• Red bell peppers
• Apple
• Lettuce
• Plums

Nutrition facts of blueberries

One serving equals one cup of blueberries. Each serving contains 84 calories, 1g protein, 3.6g fiber, 0.5g fat, 11mg potassium, 15g sugar, 21g carbohydrate, 18 mg phosphorus, and only 2 mg sodium. For their nutritional components, blueberries are known as super foods for CKD patients. This is not the only deal to buy blueberries, but learn that they are also laden with vitamin C.

The antioxidant vitamin is important for the production of collagen and hormones. Being antioxidant also means it propagates wound healing and fosters a better absorption of iron. The other function of Vitamin C is that they boost immunity.

Blueberries are a bucket full of vitamin K. Vitamin K is involved in the synthesis of many factors of the coagulation cascade. To add, they also help prevent bone and heart-related disorders by preventing brain and bones from getting old aged. Bone and mineral disorders are quite common in CKD patients as the kidneys can hardly maintain electrolyte balance at this time that results in calcium pull out.

Ayurvedic treatment for reducing high creatinine level

Scientists have also claimed that blueberries can help maintain a healthy brain by supporting memory. They help reduce depression and anxiety people suffer during kidney disease. Also, they prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease by managing healthy levels of blood pressure and blood sugar.

Blueberries also contain vitamin B, folate, and vitamin E. You can make blueberries a part of a healthy diet by drinking blueberry juice, consume them dried, fresh or frozen or make smoothie or cereal.

Other berries you can make a part of your CKD diet

Strawberries

Those with kidney disease have a risk of heart disease also. And diet is a great way to prevent CKD and the complications arising out of it. Both blueberry and strawberry are rich in anti-oxidants, namely anthocyanins that prevent your body from any oxidative damage. The anti-inflammatory properties of blueberries also help people with kidney disease by reducing inflammation.

Cranberries

Cranberries have rich amounts of antioxidants and vitamin C that also prevent the chance you may have cardiovascular disease. It is a good fruit to lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Note that rising levels of cholesterol and blood pressure often contribute to kidney disease in the later stages. Even if you are on dialysis, your doctor may suggest berries as they are quite low in potassium.

Raspberries

Raspberries carry an ellagic acid, a phytonutrient that prevents the inflammation in the joints. Scientists at the University of Rhode Island found out that those who had around 120mg of raspberry for 30 days suffered less inflammation and cartilage damage. Apart from that, the super food contains compounds called anthocyanins that help boost heart health.

Cherries

Half a serving of cherries has 160 mg potassium, 150 mg phosphorus. Cherries can help reduce inflammation if they are consumed most of the days. Also, phytochemicals and antioxidants present in cherries help protect your heart function.

The takeaway

A poor diet can have a deteriorating effect on your health and trigger many CKD-related complications. Given that, diet is very important during CKD, you need to consult a dietitian who can suggest major dietary reforms to be followed for a healthy recovery.

Or you can consult us at Karma Ayurveda to get Ayurvedic treatment and dietary advice.