Apples

Last Updated: January 02, 2023

Medically reviewed by NKF Patient Education Team

Apples are rich in antioxidants and fiber, low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium, making them kidney-friendly. They suit various kidney conditions and treatments.

There are many varieties of apples, and they are plentiful from late summer to winter. Apples range in taste from sweet to tart and are a great treat as an on-the-go snack, in salads, with a sprinkle of cinnamon, or baked.

Why are apples a superfood?

  • Rich in antioxidants, don’t forget to leave on the peel which gives you 2-6 times the antioxidant power
  • Good source of fiber, which can help with constipation
  • Good source of vitamin C which is important for healthy tissues and your immune system
  • Can help you feel fuller for longer periods of time, are low in calories, and may help control blood sugar when chosen over fruit juices

Apples and kidney disease

Apples are low in potassium, phosphorus, and sodium so they are a great choice for a kidney friendly diet. They are safe to eat for all of the following kidney conditions and treatments:

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)/Transplant
  • Hemodialysis (3 times/week)
  • Daily Home and Nocturnal Hemodialysis/ Peritoneal Dialysis
  • Kidney Stones

Apple types

APPLE VARIETYDESCRIPTIONUSES
AmbrosiaSweet, crispBaking, eating, salad
BraeburnSweet, hardEating, salad, sauce, baking
FujiSweet, hardBaking, eating, salad
GalaSweet, crispEating, baking, drying
Golden DeliciousSweet, firmEating, salad, baking
Granny SmithTart, firmBaking, eating
HoneycrispSweet, crispEating, salad, dipping
McIntoshTart, crispEating, cooking, pie, sauce
Pink LadySweet, crispEating, salad
Red DeliciousSweet, firmEating, salad

 

Cinnamon Stewed Apples

Makes: 4 servings

Serving size: ½ cup

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter or vegan butter
  • 4 medium apples, peeled and cubed or sliced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup water

Instructions

  1. Heat the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the apples and cinnamon and stir to coat.
  3. Add the water and reduce the heat to a low simmer.
  4. Cook the apples to your desired consistency, 5–10 minutes.
  5. Cool slightly and serve warm. Perfect for dessert or delicious for breakfast served over oatmeal, pancakes, or waffles.

Nutrients per serving:

Calories...........................117
Fat ...................................3 g
Cholesterol .....................0 g
Carbohydrate .................25 g
Sugar...............................19 g
Sodium............................19 mg
Potassium .......................195 mg
Phosphorus.....................20 mg
Calcium...........................12 mg

From the book The Cooking Doc’s Kidney-Healthy Cooking

by Blake Shusterman, MD  

Apple recipes

High potassium recipe: Apple Sage Stuffing

Budget recipe: BBQ Apple Chips

Want to save this information for later?

Download the National Kidney Foundation’s Fact Sheet: Kidney-Friendly Superfoods: Apples

 

This content is provided for informational use only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for the medical advice of a healthcare professional.

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© 2024 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. This material does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. Please consult a physician for specific treatment recommendations.