Can People With End Stage CKD Eat Tomatoes

Tomato has been referred to as a functional food which prevents chronic disease and delivers health benefits. We all know chronic kidney disease (CKD) especially for end stage kidney disease patients should pay much attention to their diet. Well, can people with end stage CKD eat tomatoes?

Possible health benefits of consuming tomatoes:

1. Lower blood pressure

High blood pressure is a common complication of kidney disease. Maintaining a low sodium intake is essential to lowering blood pressure. Increasing potassium in tomato may be just as important because of its vasodilation effects.

2. Diabetes

Diabetes is a first leading cause of kidney disease. Studies have shown that regularly consuming tomatoes lower the risk for type II diabetes.

3. Minimize constipation

Kidney disease patients frequently complain of constipation. Eating foods that high in water content and fiber like tomatoes can keep you hydrated and your bowel movements regular. Fiber is essential for minimizing constipation.

4. Heart health

Heart disease is the main cause of death in kidney disease patients. The fiber, potassium, vitamin C and choline content in tomatoes support heart health. An increase in potassium intake along with a decrease in sodium intake is the most important dietary change that a person can make to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Along with so many health benefits, can all kidney disease patients eat tomatoes. Of course not. When kidneys fail they can no longer remove excess potassium, so the level builds up in the body. High potassium in the blood is called hyperkalemia, which may occur in people with advanced stage of CKD. Some of the effects of high potassium are nausea, weakness, numbness and slow pulse. To prevent potassium level from getting too high and avoid further kidney damage, foods high in potassium like tomatoes should be limited.

Not all kidney disease patients can eat tomatoes. Whether you can eat tomato or not should depend on your own medical conditions. If you have any question, you can leave a message below or consult our online doctor directly. We will reply you as soon as possible.