Understanding Purines and Gout
Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden and severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in joints, often the joint at the base of the big toe. It develops when urate crystals accumulate in the joints, causing inflammation. Urate crystals form when there are high levels of uric acid in the blood. Purines are chemical compounds found in some foods that raise uric acid levels in the body.
For those prone to gout, one way to help prevent gout attacks is to limit intake of purine-rich foods. Understanding which foods are high in purines, moderate in purines and low in purines can help guide food choices.
High Purine Foods to Avoid with Gout
Here are some foods highest in purines that are commonly associated with increasing gout risk and triggering painful gout attacks:
- Organ meats like liver, kidneys, sweetbreads
- Game meats like goose, duck, venison
- Meat-based gravies and broths
- Meat extracts and yeast extracts
- Sardines, anchovies, herring
- Scallops, mussels, trout, haddock, mackerel
- Beer and grain alcohol
Moderate Purine Foods
These foods contain moderate amounts of purines and can be eaten in moderation or limited amounts:
- Beef, lamb, pork
- Seafood like salmon, tuna, shrimp, lobster
- Asparagus, mushrooms, peas, spinach
- Oatmeal and whole grains
Low Purine Foods
These foods contain low levels of purines and are generally considered safe to eat freely with gout:
- Breads, cereals, pasta, rice
- Fruits like apples, blueberries, cherries, oranges, strawberries
- Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes
- Low-fat dairy products
- Coffee, tea
- Eggs
- Sugars and sweets
Tips for Following a Low Purine Diet for Gout
If you have gout, focusing on a healthy low purine diet can help reduce flare-ups while still giving you flexibility and variety. Here are some tips:
Limit High Purine Foods
Avoid organ meats, game meats, fish roe, sardines and anchovies altogether. Limit intake of foods with moderate purine levels like beef, pork, seafood, asparagus and mushrooms to no more than 4-6 ounces daily.
Eat More Low Purine Foods
Choose more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy, eggs and foods made with vegetable oils, sugars or refined grains as they are all low in purines.
Stay Hydrated
Drink at least 8 glasses of non-alcoholic fluids daily like water, juice and herbal teas to help flush uric acid from the body. Limit alcohol intake which interferes with uric acid removal.
Maintain Healthy Weight
Excess weight is linked with higher uric acid levels and greater risk of gout. Losing weight can lower uric acid production. Avoid crash dieting which can trigger gout attacks.
Discuss Uric Acid Lowering Medications
For recurrent gout, medications like allopurinol, febuxostat and probenecid help lower uric acid production and remove uric acid from the body to prevent crystal formation.
Sample 1-Day Menus for a Low Purine Diet
What does a low purine anti-gout diet plan look like day to day? Here are some ideas:
Breakfast
- Oatmeal with blueberries and low-fat milk
- Whole grain toast with poached eggs
- Yogurt parfait made with Greek yogurt, strawberries and granola
Lunch
- Tuna salad sandwich on whole grain bread with carrot sticks
- Turkey burger on a whole wheat bun with oven fries
- Veggie and rice soup or salad with chicken or shrimp
Dinner
- Herb roasted chicken with roasted potatoes and green beans
- Pasta primavera
- Veggie and bean burritos with brown rice and salad
Snacks
- Fresh fruits like apples, berries, melon, oranges
- Raw veggies with hummus
- Low-fat yogurt
- Unsalted nuts and seeds
- Popcorn
The Bottom Line
Following a gout diet focused on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy, plant proteins and unsweetened beverages can help lower uric acid. Limit organ meats, shellfish, sugary drinks and alcohol which can rapidly trigger painful gout attacks. Work closely with your doctor and dietitian to develop an anti-gout eating plan tailored to your health history and needs.
FAQs
What foods are highest in purines?
Organ meats like liver and kidneys, game meats, anchovies, sardines, scallops and trout are the foods highest in purines.
Are fruits high in purines?
No, most fruits are very low in purines, including apples, berries, citrus fruits and melons. Fruits are safe to eat freely for those with gout.
Can I still eat red meat if I have gout?
Beef, lamb and pork do contain moderate levels of purines. Limit intake to no more than 4-6 ounces per day when following a gout diet.
What type of alcohol is lowest in purines?
Grain-based alcohol like beer contains moderate purine levels and is strongly linked with gout attacks. Wine and clear liquors like vodka are lower in purines.
Will a low purine diet completely cure my gout?
While a purine-limited diet cannot cure gout, it remains an important part of managing gout and preventing recurrent painful flare-ups in those prone to high uric acid.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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