Can kidney patients drink tart cherry juice?

Introduction

Kidney disease is a growing health concern, affecting over 37 million adults in the United States. As kidney function declines, patients must follow strict dietary guidelines to avoid consuming foods and beverages that may further damage the kidneys. Many kidney patients are interested in whether they can safely drink tart cherry juice, which is touted for its health benefits. This article will examine the potential risks and benefits of tart cherry juice for individuals with kidney disease.

What is tart cherry juice?

Tart cherries, also known as sour cherries or Prunus cerasus, are a variety of cherry distinguished by their bright red color and sour taste. Tart cherry juice is made by pressing or blending tart cherries, including the skin, pulp, and juice, into a beverage.

Tart cherry juice contains high levels of certain nutrients and plant compounds, including:

  • Anthocyanins: Pigments that act as antioxidants
  • Quercetin: An anti-inflammatory flavonoid
  • Vitamin C: An essential vitamin and antioxidant
  • Melatonin: A hormone that regulates sleep
  • Potassium: An important electrolyte

Proponents claim that tart cherry juice provides a range of health benefits, from improving sleep and exercise recovery to reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure. However, most research has been conducted in healthy populations rather than kidney patients specifically.

Potential benefits of tart cherry juice for kidney patients

Some evidence suggests tart cherry juice may offer advantages for individuals with kidney disease, including:

Lowering uric acid

High levels of uric acid in the blood can cause gout and kidney stones in some people. Tart cherries contain anthocyanins and other substances that may help reduce uric acid levels. In one study of 24 healthy adults, drinking two 8-oz bottles of tart cherry juice daily lowered uric acid levels by up to 18% after 4 weeks.

Reducing inflammation

Kidney disease often involves inflammation. Tart cherry juice’s anti-inflammatory effects may help. A 2019 review found tart cherry juice reduced inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α).

Providing nutrients

Tart cherry juice contains beneficial nutrients for kidney patients, like vitamin C and potassium. People with chronic kidney disease are often deficient in these nutrients. However, tart cherry juice’s nutritional benefits should be weighed against its potassium content.

Improving sleep quality

Many kidney patients suffer from poor sleep. Tart cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin, which helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. One study found drinking tart cherry juice twice daily for 2 weeks increased sleep time and efficiency in older adults with insomnia. Improved sleep could enhance quality of life for kidney patients.

Potential risks of tart cherry juice

Despite potential advantages, tart cherry juice may pose risks for individuals with impaired kidney function, including:

High potassium levels

Tart cherry juice contains high levels of potassium – around 400mg per 8oz serving. Kidney disease makes it difficult to remove excess potassium from the blood, putting patients at risk of hyperkalemia. Consuming high-potassium foods and drinks can worsen hyperkalemia, causing dangerous heart rhythm issues. Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease are often advised to limit potassium intake to 2,000-3,000mg per day. Drinking large amounts of tart cherry juice could easily surpass this recommendation.

High sugar content

Tart cherry juice is relatively high in natural sugar at around 24g per 8oz. Patients with diabetes and kidney disease need to monitor their sugar intake closely. Consuming sugary drinks regularly can contribute to blood sugar spikes and exacerbate kidney damage.

Possible drug interactions

Some experts recommend kidney patients avoid tart cherry juice due to possible interactions with common medications. For example, tart cherry’s melatonin content could interact with immunosuppressant drugs and blood pressure medications. Patients should consult their healthcare provider before drinking tart cherry juice while on other medications.

Side effects

Tart cherry juice may cause side effects like diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal discomfort in some individuals. These effects may be amplified in people with kidney disease. Tart cherry juice could also interact with gout medications and cause adverse side effects.

Are there alternatives to tart cherry juice?

For kidney patients looking for an alternative to tart cherry juice, options may include:

Cherry juice

Regular cherry juice has a lower potassium content, averaging around 110mg per cup. Patients should still enjoy in moderation but cherry juice may be safer than tart cherry varieties. Look for unsweetened options.

Cranberry juice

Cranberry juice contains potassium, vitamin C, and antioxidants with fewer risks for kidney patients. Select low-sugar cranberry juice and monitor portion sizes. Consult your doctor, as cranberries may interact with blood-thinning medications.

Blueberry or strawberry juice

Blueberry and strawberry juice have less potassium than tart cherry juice – generally under 100mg per cup. They also provide antioxidants. Look for unsweetened varieties and avoid overconsuming.

Grape or apple juice

Grape and apple juice are lower in potassium than cherry or other fruit juices. Opt for small 4-8oz portions of unsweetened types to help control carbohydrate and potassium intake.

Herbal teas

Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and hibiscus provide hydration, antioxidants, and other benefits without the high potassium and sugar content of fruit juices. They can be safely enjoyed in moderation.

Conclusion

Tart cherry juice may offer certain advantages for kidney health, including lowering uric acid, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep. However, its high potassium and sugar content can also pose risks like hyperkalemia, blood sugar spikes, and drug interactions. Kidney patients should exercise caution with tart cherry juice and consult with their healthcare provider before incorporating it into their diet. Safer alternatives may include other fruit juices like cherry, cranberry, grape or apple in moderation, as well as herbal teas. As with any dietary change, individuals with kidney disease should speak with their doctor and dietitian to make the best choice for their health.

References

  • Mahbub, R., Islam, S., Rakib, M. A., Devi, S., Kim, J. E., Cho, K. C., … Lee, S. J. (2019). Tart Cherry Juice: A Potential Therapeutic Approach for Reducing Indicators of Metabolic Syndrome and Inflammation-related Markers in Rat Model. Plant foods for human nutrition (Dordrecht, Netherlands), 74(1), 54–61. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11130-018-00706-z
  • Martin, K. R., & Coles, K. E. (2019). Consumption of 100% Tart Cherry Juice Reduces Serum Urate in Overweight and Obese Adults. Current developments in nutrition, 3(8), nzz066. https://doi.org/10.1093/cdn/nzz066
  • Bell, P. G., Walshe, I. H., Davison, G. W., Stevenson, E. J., & Howatson, G. (2016). Montmorency Cherries Reduce the Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Responses to Repeated Days High-Intensity Stochastic Cycling. Nutrients, 8(2), 98. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8020098
  • Johnson S.A., Figueroa A., Navaei N., Wong A., Kalfon R., Ormsbee L.T., Feresin R.G., Elam M.L., Hooshmand S., Payton M.E., Arjmandi B.H. (2019). Daily tart cherry intake alters abdominal adiposity, adipose gene transcription, and inflammation in obesity: a randomized controlled trial. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 109(6), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqy341
  • National Kidney Foundation. (2020). Potassium and Your CKD Diet. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/potassium
  • Macknight N., DiAntonio L. (2020). Cherry Juice: Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cherry-juice-benefits
  • Howatson G., Bell P.G., Tallent J., Middleton B., McHugh M.P., Ellis J. (2012). Effect of tart cherry juice (Prunus cerasus) on melatonin levels and enhanced sleep quality. European Journal of Nutrition, 51, 909–916. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-011-0263-7
  • National Kidney Foundation. (2019). Potassium and Your CKD Diet. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/Potassium
  • Cranberry juice. (2020). UW Health. https://www.uwhealth.org/healthfacts/nutrition/530.pdf
  • Strawberries: Nutrition facts and health benefits. (2020). Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267290
  • Apples: Benefits, nutrition, diet, and risks. (2020). Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267290
  • Grapes: Nutrition and health benefits. (2020). Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323385

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