Why avocados may be dangerous for people with kidney disease
Avocados can pose a serious health risk due to its high potassium content.
Avocados are often praised for their rich nutrients, heart-healthy fats, and numerous health benefits.
However, for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), this superfood can pose a serious health risk due to its high potassium content.
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The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering out excess potassium from the blood.
When they are not functioning properly, potassium can build up to dangerous levels, leading to a condition called hyperkalemia.
This can cause irregular heartbeats, muscle weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.
According to Tracy Theuri, an independent registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) and consultant at Aga Khan University Hospital and other hospitals, while avocados are considered a superfood due to their high nutrient value, they may not be suitable for people with kidney disease.
"Most kidney patients need to monitor their potassium intake because their kidneys can’t filter it out effectively. Consuming too much potassium can lead to life-threatening complications," Theuri explains.
More potassium than bananas
In support of this, Research from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows that a single cup of avocado (about 150g) contains about 690–900 mg of potassium, which is significantly higher than a medium-sized banana, which has around 450 mg (USDA).
Additionally, a study published by the National Kidney Foundation states that people with chronic kidney disease are typically advised to limit their potassium intake to 2,000–3,000 mg per day.
“This means that just one cup of avocado can provide up to 45 per cent of the daily limit, and you can imagine that is not the only thing you will eat other foods also have potassium during the day, making it a risky choice for those with kidney issues,” she said.
"For many chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, eating avocados, even in small portions, can easily push their potassium levels beyond the recommended limit."
Safer alternatives
For individuals managing kidney disease, finding low-potassium alternatives is crucial. Theuri suggested the following fruits, apples, berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) pears, and grapes which provide fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants without overloading the kidneys with potassium.
She also advises that in addition to avocados, kidney patients should limit or avoid other high-potassium foods such as mangoes, bananas, spinach, and tomatoes as they are also high in potassium.
Chronic kidney disease on the rise in Kenya
As the world marks World Kidney Day on March 13, chronic kidney disease remains a growing health concern in Kenya, affecting approximately 4 per cent of the population.
The leading causes of CKD in Kenya include: hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, HIV infections and advanced age.
"Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains a major health issue in Kenya, and early screening, dietary management, and lifestyle changes are essential in preventing complications," Theuri emphasized.
While avocados remain a healthy food choice for the general population, individuals with kidney disease should limit or avoid them to prevent potassium-related complications.
Consulting a doctor or dietitian is key to managing a kidney-friendly diet that supports overall health while keeping potassium levels in check.
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