Healthy Kidney Inc.

Strawberries, Are They The Kidneys’ Favorite Fruit?

What’s the best fruit for kidney health? There are numerous fruits that are good choices and it’s hard to say whether or not there’s a “best” fruit, but if we were posing this question and seriously considering what the answer to it could be, you’d be hard-pressed to find a fruit sweeter to the kidneys than the strawberry.

We’ve chronicled the beneficial aspects of berries to kidney health sufferers on the blog before, but usually have discussed another kidney favorite, blueberries. Still, there are many other members of the berry family that can help just as much, if not more, and one of these is that little red berry that is so popular and beloved among many the world over.

So, what exactly is it about strawberries that sets them apart as a renal health superstar?

 

Did you know?

  • 1/2 a cup of fresh strawberries (about 5 berries) contains: 1 mg of sodium, 13 mg of phosphorus & 120 mg of potassium.

     

  • Strawberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants.

     

  • Strawberries contain ample amounts of manganese and fiber.

     

  • Strawberries have been observed to aid in the fight against inflammation and even help safeguard the heart

     


Why Such A Great Pick For Kidney Health?

To piggyback on those statistics, some of the latest scientific research has observed tangible benefits to kidney function due to two specific phenols present in strawberries. Phenols are organic compounds typically rich in antioxidant properties. The two types of phenols contained in strawberries that really help improve kidney function are anthocyanins and ellagitannins. Anthocyanins, give strawberries their red color and, being particularly rich in antioxidants can help prevent damage as a result of oxidation and cellular again. Strawberries, as noted above are chock full of manganese and fiber which can help facilitate good digestion and combat constipation (a common concern for CKD sufferers). In addition, they contain a hefty helping of vitamin C which can help boost immune response and overall vitality.

Further studies in the past few years have even suggested strawberries and their high antioxidant content could help prevent heart problems and even certain kinds of cancers. They’re also very good at reducing inflammation. People with chronic kidney disease are at a very high risk of developing heart problems and struggle with chronic inflammation, so these particular benefits are integral to contributing to a healthier overall feeling.  Since strawberries are also so low in potassium, they’re a great, safe option for inclusion in any well-rounded healthy kidney diet plan.


What’s The Best Way To Enjoy Strawberries

You can make strawberries a healthy part of your kidney diet by:

  • Adding sliced strawberries to salads

     

  • Adding them to cereals

     

  • Eating them whole and fresh (washed beforehand, of course)

     

  • Healthy shake or smoothie

     

  • Add them to your yogurt

     

  • Create a sorbet

     

  • Pudding

     

  • A strawberry pie

     


Whichever way you decide to enjoy them, it’s important to bear in mind that moderation in all things is a good rule to follow even for foods that are kidney-friendly. This means that even though strawberries are a good low potassium fruit choice, consuming them in excess could also be a bad idea. So be sure to moderate yourself.

 

Diabetes, Diabetic Kidney Disease & The Strawberry Connection

Scientists at the Salk Institute in La Jolla researched strawberries as the focus of a recent diabetic kidney disease study. What they deduced was that strawberries contained a compound known as fisetin which could help reduce the prevalent kidney problems in the diabetic community. In the study, diabetic mice were examined. When fisetin-enriched food was distributed to the mice, it was noted that although they did remain diabetic, their kidneys (which were enlarged), began to shrink. High protein levels in the urine likewise fell to normal levels.

What Are Some of Their Other Benefits?

As mentioned above, fisetin-rich strawberries are remarkably helpful for those suffering from diabetic kidney disease and that in the study performed on diabetic mice, the mice did remain diabetic. But even if you do have diabetes, strawberries can still be beneficial in a variety of ways. Chiefly, due to their low glycemic index 2-3 servings a week can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes from developing, it can also help prevent blood sugar spikes and reduce the risk of diabetic complications like kidney disease or neuropathy.

Heart health is benefited by at least 3 servings per week of strawberries (between 1 and 2 cups) because they help lower total and LDL cholesterol. They also reduced heart attack risk in women, specifically by as much as 32%.

Plentiful antioxidants help to prevent the formation of blood clots which cause stroke, keep blood pressure stable and even block growth of tumors.

As mentioned above, strawberries are a wonderful idea to add some sweetness to your diet without need for worry. Here’s a recipe for a kidney-friendly treat you’ll be able to enjoy without the guilt and all that excess potassium

Ingredients

1 low sodium pie shell, 8.5 inches size
7 oz. of low-fat cream cheese
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
2.2 cups of all-natural, no sugar added fruit strawberry jam
½ tablespoon of vanilla
1 tablespoon of water
¾ lbs. of fresh strawberries
½ cup whipping cream, heavy
2 tablespoons of stevia sugar

Preparation

  1. Start by baking the pie shell, following instructions. Let it cool down. Cut fresh strawberries.
  2. Mix the powdered sugar with low-fat cream cheese and blend thoroughly.
  3. Combine water and lemon juice in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes (for the thickness).
  4. Throw some strawberry jam into a pan. Add powdered sugar and stir. Let it simmer down. Once cool, add in fresh strawberries.
  5. Place the whipped cream bowl in the freezer for 12 minutes.
  6. Add 2 tbsp. of stevia sugar, vanilla, and heavy whipping cream into bowl and whip till its stiff
  7. Lay out the low-fat cream cheese mixture on bottom and around the low sodium pie shell
  8. Pour strawberry mixture and leave it for 4 hours in the fridge
  9. Lastly, include homemade whip cream when ready to serve

And, if you’re looking for some great kidney-friendly recipe be sure to take a look at some of our older articles and be sure to watch our videos on YouTube to learn which foods are the best for your kidney health and which ones you’d be better off without entirely. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe, like and comment. What food should we delve into next?