Are Clementines High In Potassium?

Clementines are a variant of oranges; they differ among the oranges for a sweeter taste and for the possibility to peel them more easily. Clementines contain less acid than oranges, and they come more petite in size. 

Regarding the nutritional values, clementines can be compared to tangerines. As well as the majority of oranges family, clementines are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, helping improve skin’s appearance and health. 

Anyway, some of the questions that could arise in people affected by chronic kidney disease are, do clementines contain potassium? Are clementines richer in potassium than oranges?

Are clementines high in potassium? No, clementines are low potassium fruit. The potassium content of clementines is 177 mg of potassium for a serving portion of 100g.

The low potassium content of clementines makes them a good citrus fruit to be consumed by people who follow a kidney-friendly diet, and they cannot consume foods that are rich in potassium. 

Are clementines good for kidneys?

Yes, clementines can be considered suitable for kidneys since their potassium content is low and will not negatively impact a patient with kidney disease.

The kidneys’ primary function is to remove the wastes and fluids in our bodies. Furthermore, kidneys have the task of keeping the proper equilibrium of water, salt, and minerals, such as potassium, phosphorus, and sodium. (see more)

People that are not suffering from any form of kidney disease don’t have to worry about the intake of potassium in foods, since, in the majority of the cases, it will be taken from the consumption of fruits and vegetables ( if you follow a regular diet).

Opposite discussion for people that are affected by chronic kidney disease. In that case, the patient should follow a specific diet, where foods with low potassium amounts are requested. 

Since the amount of potassium content inside the clementines can be considered low, with a high probability of chance, if you have to follow a low potassium diet, you can anyway consume clementines, always paying attention to respect the amount suggested by your renal dietician. 

Are clementines higher in potassium than orange?

No, clementines are lower in potassium than orange. For a serving size of 100g, the potassium in clementines is 177mg, while oranges contain a potassium amount of 181 mg.

The potassium amount of clementines and oranges can be considered almost the same; the difference in mg is only 4mg. 

How much potassium is good per day?

The suggested amount of potassium per day for a male over 18 years old is 4,700mg. (source)

Potassium is an electrolyte that carries out the essential tasks to keep the normal level of fluids inside our cells. Furthermore, it helps maintain a regular heartbeat and the correct working of muscles. 

Potassium is a mineral that is almost present in every food. Even though the fruit most known for their higher amount of potassium is bananas, it is essential to consider that other fruits are rich in potassium. See more on foods and potassium.

Feeding our body with the recommended daily potassium intake is fundamental, especially to avoid hypokalemia. 

Do clementines contain too much potassium? 

Clementines can be considered low in potassium, and only if you eat them in large quantities can you go over the limits of the recommended daily intake of potassium.

Although clementines is low in potassium, if you are following a low potassium diet or have experienced kidney failure, it is essential to contact your dietician before consuming them.

Are clementines healthy? 

Clematis contains high antioxidants, mainly derived from the Vitamin C present, helping reduce inflammation. 

The high presence of vitamin C in clementines also promotes digestion. At the same time, other research has also shown an incredible increase in eye health after regular consumption of citrus fruits, and especially from clementines, since they contain flavonoids. 

Final thoughts

Clementines are closely related to tangerines and oranges regarding the amount of potassium. Clementines can be considered low potassium fruits, and it is essential to consume them in low amounts because they are high in sugar, not perfect for people that have diabetes, and cannot have blood sugar spikes.