Can Patients with Hypertensive Nephritis Eat Watermelon

Hypertensive Nephritis is inflammatory damage on the kidneys caused by chronic or poorly controlled high blood pressure. Malfunctioning kidneys can cause such clinical symptoms as nocturia, proteinuria, swelling, etc. A healthy diet will help the patients to better control their illness condition and protect their kidneys. Watermelon is a favorite food by many, however, with kidney disease, is there need to avoid the food to help the illness condition?

Nutrient analysis for watermelon. Watermelon contains rich water, various types of amino acids and sugar. It is known to have diuretic effect and help to lower blood pressure. In addition, watermelon is helpful for improving metabolism, reducing deposition of cholesterols, softening blood vessels and resisting scurvy. Modern researches suggest that the protease within watermelons can transform insoluble proteins into soluble proteins and help the absorption of proteins. In addition, watermelons also provide rich vitamins, and will be beneficial for improving immunity and preventing injury on cells. Watermelon is beneficial for improving muscle and nerve functions and preventing occurrence of kidney stones.

Watermelon has all the above benefits, should people with Hypertensive Nephritis eat watermelon? A symptom Hypertensive nephritis patients can experience is swelling. Watermelon contains rich water, so it is not suitable if there is presence of swelling in limbs, eyelids and ankles. If people have swelling, then people will be suggested to avoid eating watermelon. Watermelon contains rich sugar and high potassium as well. Hence people who have Diabetes or in kidney failure also need to restrict the consumption of watermelon. People who have low blood pressure should limit the intake of watermelons because it may cause strokes. In daily life, people with hypertensive nephritis are suggested to eat more high fiber content foods. High sodium foods such as brawns, tofu and all kinds of salted foods should be restricted since high sodium can raise your blood pressure and cause fluid retention.