Doctors suggest 6 fruits to help the kidneys filter blood and prevent stones

The kidneys are essential organs, playing a vital role in filtering waste from the body and regulating nutrient levels. To maintain kidney health, consuming plenty of fruit is extremely important. According to American board-certified dietitian Jen Hernandez, an analysis of data from more than 98,000 participants found that increased fruit intake was associated with a 6% to 8% reduction in the risk of developing kidney disease.

However, when it comes to protecting the kidneys, not all fruits are equal. Below are 6 fruits that are highly appreciated by experts for their unique compounds and properties.

Starting the list is red grapes, a fruit that has a positive effect on the kidneys thanks to a special plant compound. Nutritionist Erin Hetrick says red grapes contain the phytochemical resveratrol, which has the ability to support kidney health. Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells and reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the kidneys. Red grapes, in particular, contain less potassium than many other fruits, making them a smart choice for people who need to control this mineral. This is a great snack that can be sprinkled on salads or frozen.

Next is the apple, a familiar fruit rich in anti-inflammatory properties and soluble fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol and blood glucose levels. Dr. Raeeda Gheewala, a sports nephrologist in the US, emphasized that these dual benefits are extremely important for diabetic and hypertensive kidney disease. Since those two conditions are the leading causes of kidney disease, controlling them through diet, especially through the soluble fiber in apples, helps protect kidney function while also aiding digestion and maintaining a feeling of fullness longer.

Similarly, small berries like blueberries also have a big impact in protecting the kidneys. According to Ms. Gheewala, blueberries are high in anthocyanins and vitamin C, which provide powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Anthocyanins, the compounds that give blueberries their deep blue color, work to fight oxidative stress and inflammation that can damage kidney cells over time. “Research shows that people who consume a lot of fruits like berries and apples have a 16% lower risk of chronic kidney disease thanks to the flavonoids from these fruits,” Hernandez added. Whether fresh or frozen, blueberries are an easy addition to breakfast, yogurt or smoothies.

In particular, lemons, a sour citrus fruit, offer unique benefits for kidney health, especially in preventing kidney stones. Dr. Gheewala says this fruit provides citric acid, which reduces kidney stone formation and increases hydration, while also helping to inhibit calcium oxalate stone formation. Furthermore, the habit of adding lemon to water increases the amount of fluid the body absorbs, which is beneficial for maintaining kidney function. In addition, vitamin C in lemons also has antioxidant effects, helping to protect the body from harmful free radicals.

Besides, pineapple is also highly appreciated by expert Hernandez. “Pineapple is a kidney-friendly fruit that I frequently recommend. It’s rich in vitamin C, manganese, dietary fiber and contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant phytochemicals that support kidney health,” she says. Pineapple also contains Bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties. Like red grapes, pineapple contains less potassium than many other fruits, which may be important for people who are monitoring potassium levels.

Finally, there’s the raspberry. According to renal nutritionist Alex Evink at Michigan Kidney Consultants, it is one of the highest-fiber fruits, with 8 grams of fiber per one-cup serving. “Fiber is important in regulating blood sugar levels and promoting regularity. Stabilizing blood sugar levels is important in preserving kidney function in patients with diabetes,” Ms. Evink explains.

Because diabetes is a major risk factor for kidney disease, keeping blood sugar levels stable through fiber-rich foods like raspberries can help protect kidney function over time. This berry also provides vitamin C, manganese and antioxidants that help fight inflammation.