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Home Food Database Balsam-pear (bitter gourd)

Balsam-pear (bitter gourd), pods, raw

Per 100 g edible portion
Vegetables
Kidney-friendlyBalsam-pear (bitter gourd) receives a Kidney-friendly rating. Among phosphorus, sodium and potassium, Potassium is highest at 15%, yet stays under the 15% line.

Phosphorus / Sodium / Potassium (rating basis)

Phosphorus31 mg3%
Low
Sodium5 mg<1%
Low
Potassium296 mg15%
Low

About this food

In a CKD diet, Vegetables deserve attention: Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) - Vegetables are a key source of fiber and vitamins and are beneficial in CKD. Some are high in potassium, but slicing, boiling and discarding the water can remove about 30-50% of the potassium - a practical step.

Nutrient insight

Balsam-pear (bitter gourd)'s potassium reaches 15% of the limit - the leading item. Patients with normal blood potassium can eat moderate amounts; those with hyperkalemia should be more careful.

Other nutrients

Protein1 gNot part of rating
Fiber2.8 gBeneficial for CKD (core plant-based nutrient)
Alcohol0 gAlcohol-free
PurineNo dataNot rated · reference for those with high uric acid
OxalateNo dataNot rated · reference for those with kidney stones
Phosphorus source: Natural plant source (lower absorption) · Potassium form: Whole food

Practical tips

If you are managing mineral intake: Slice, boil and discard the water to remove roughly 30-50% of the potassium - a practical method for high-potassium vegetables.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) safe for kidney disease?

Based on CKD stage 3-4 daily limits, Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) is rated Kidney-friendly - Potassium is the highest contributor at 15% of its limit. Ratings reflect public nutrition data only; individual cases should follow medical advice.

Why is Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) rated Kidney-friendly?

Among phosphorus, sodium and potassium, Balsam-pear (bitter gourd)'s Potassium is highest (296 mg, 15% of daily limit), falling in the <15% band - hence the Kidney-friendly rating.

How much Potassium is in Balsam-pear (bitter gourd)?

Balsam-pear (bitter gourd)'s Potassium content is 296 mg per 100 g - 15% of the daily limit of 2,000 mg.

Is Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) safe on a low-potassium diet?

If you are on a potassium-restricted diet, Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) falls below 300 mg per 100 g - Potassium comes in at 296 mg. Always verify against your own daily limit.

How does Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) compare to other vegetables foods?

How does Balsam-pear (bitter gourd) compare within Vegetables? Its Potassium (296 mg per 100 g) is less than the category average. The rating below is calculated from this food's own data.