Citrus fruits to cure kidney cysts

A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology states that citrus fruits such as orangeslemons and grapefruit can help prevent the formation of kidney cysts thanks to a flavonoid called naringenin.

This hereditary disease is passed down through families and is known as polycystic kidney disease. This condition usually occurs in adults, although children are also affected. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) leads to severe kidney disease. The kidney cysts can increase the normal kidney weight from about 150 g to several kilograms. Consequence of this disease is high blood pressure, chronic renal failure and the need for dialysis. Treatment is complicated as there are still no effective drugs.

A team of English scientists has found that naringenin is able to regulate PKD2 protein levels and consequently block the formation of kidney cysts.

With this finding they have taken an important step towards finding an effective treatment for this disease. The aim is to develop new therapies and drugs to help those affected. The same method was used in patients with epilepsy and bipolar disorders, which is another very interesting field of research.

Further studies are needed to find out how naringenin can be used to prevent the formation of kidney cysts. Professor Debbie Baines of St. George's University of London comments that this study is a good example to show how natural substances can be used to develop drugs. It is a hope for all those who are suffering from this disease.

More and more benefits of citrus fruits for our health are being discovered. Let's eat oranges and tangerines!

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