With the arrival of autumn and cold days, the first harvests of tangerines They arrive in supermarkets in Spain, thus starting a new season of winter fruit consumption, which also includes oranges. From what has always been known, tangerine is a food rich in water, therefore, what makes it a whole diuretic fruit perfect for kidney function. But far from that, It can also cause serious kidney problems.
This is what makes it a peculiar fruit, as on the one hand it brings benefits, but it can also take them away. That’s why it’s important to know the true properties that tangerine provides to the body. Nothing, therefore, that cannot be resolved with moderate consumption. Among the many advantages that this fruit with its rich orange appearance and sweet citrus flavor can offer, there are some disadvantages, especially for people who already have kidney health problems.
The negative impact of tangerine on kidney disease
There is a nutritional dichotomy when it comes to the properties of tangerine, because on the one hand it is talked about as a natural diuretic, on the other it is urges caution due to its potassium content. As mentioned, eating tangerines every day can have a negative impact on kidney health if consumed in excess.
Compared to other fruits, tangerines do not have a very high content of this mineral, but this must be taken into account. In problems such as kidney failureThe kidneys cannot eliminate excess potassium, so it passes directly into the blood. This, according to the National Library of Medicine, can cause of abnormal heart rhythms even the most serious case of a heart attack. What is recommended for people with this kidney damage is a limit of one piece of tangerine per day, according to the National Kidney Foundation.
The benefits of tangerine on the kidneys
However, in people who do not have renal contraindications, taking tangerine in moderation may provide diverse benefits thanks to its citric acid content. This citric acid binds to calcium in urine, reducing the risk of crystals or kidney stones forming. Furthermore, its high water content (90%) also contributes to keep your kidneys hydratedthrough which this organ can better filter waste that the body does not need and therefore promote proper functioning.
Tangerines are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants. These compounds, especially antioxidants, can also have an impact on kidney health. They help fight oxidative damage, one of the factors that contributes to cellular aging and several chronic diseases, including those related to the kidneys. But without a doubt, The benefits that tangerines provide are usually grouped into three points:
- Strengthen the immune system: Thanks to their high vitamin C content, tangerines are ideal for preventing colds and other common infections.
- They improve digestion: The fiber present in tangerines promotes intestinal transit and prevents constipation.
- Promote healthy skin: Antioxidants help reduce damage caused by free radicals, which can affect skin health.
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