Purines are naturally present in our body and the food we consume. They are converted into uric acid during metabolism. Uric acid is an antioxidant that guards the blood vessels. However, when more purine is consumed, uric acid level increases and results in gout. So, it is better to limit the purine rich foods in our diet.
Purine Rich Foods
Seafood
Sea foods are loaded with purines. Sardines contain the highest amounts of purines. Every 100g of sardine contains about 480 mg purine. It can easily trigger gout reactions. Fishes such as codfish, trout, lobster, shrimp, tuna and mussels also contain good amount of purine. Therefore, limiting the consumption of fishes rich in purine can avoid gout.
Raisin
Raisins are very delicious and one of the preferred toppings in deserts and baked items. However, they are packed with purine. 100 g of raisins possess 107 mg of purine, which can lead to problems when consumed by patients with gout because of the high purine content.
Lentils
Lentils are widely consumed around the world. They are the rich source of plant protein and are loaded with dietary fiber. Surprisingly they contain high amounts of purine too. 127 mg purine is found in 100 g of lentils. Hence, limiting the consumption of lentil will lessen the purine level in the body.
Sunflower Seeds
These seeds make a good snack, but when consumed on a regular basis, it might result in high uric acid levels. They contain excess purines, which might lead to an elevated uric acid level. One handful of the seeds contains nearly 143 mg purine. So, it is better to limit the addition of these seeds in your diet.
Vegetables
Not all vegetables are loaded with purine, but a few such as mushroom, spinach, asparagus and cauliflower. These vegetables contribute to the increase in the uric acid levels when consumed by patients with gout. However, you need not completely eliminate these veggies from your diet, but make sure you do not consume more than two portions per day.
Lamb
Similar to red meat, lamb is packed with protein and purine. 182 mg of purine is present in 100g lamb, which is considerably high. This makes lamb one of the foods that should be highly avoided by people with gout.
Beef
Beef contains about 110 mg puirnes per 100 g. It can result in sudden gout attacks when consumed more. So, if you have gout, it is better to avoid beef. It is also better to consult the doctor before adding beef to your diet.
