Dietary management of patients with hyperuricemia and gout is a key part of controlling the condition and reducing gout flares. Here are some dietary tips, which are in line with the wisdom of nutrition and traditional diets, as well as the relevant guidelines issued by the National Health Commission:
1
Dietary points for people with high uric acid and gout
Limit high-purine foods
Reduce or avoid foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, certain seafood (such as shellfish and shrimp), etc., as the purines in these foods are metabolized by the body into uric acid.
Moderate protein intake
Choose low-fat protein sources such as chicken breast, eggs, milk, and soy products. The total daily protein intake should be kept within the recommended range to avoid excessive intake.
Whole grains and dietary fiber
Increase your intake of whole grains and foods rich in dietary fiber, such as brown rice, whole wheat flour, corn, etc., which help stabilize blood sugar and reduce fat absorption.
Moisture to the right amount
Ensure adequate water intake every day, and it is recommended to drink at least 2 liters of water to help uric acid be excreted in the urine. But be careful to avoid high-fructose beverages and caffeinated beverages.
Avoid fast food and processed foods
These foods tend to be high in purines, sugar, and fat and should be avoided as much as possible.
It is recommended that gout patients develop a personalized diet plan under the guidance of a professional dietitian, and at the same time, regularly monitor the blood uric acid level, and adjust their diet and lifestyle according to the doctor's instructions to achieve the best treatment effect.
2
Foods to eat with high uric acid
vegetable
Most fresh vegetables are low in purines and are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which aid in uric acid excretion. Especially those vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, such as broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, etc.
fruit
The fructose in fruits helps in the excretion of uric acid, but it is important to choose fruits that are low in fructose in moderation, such as cherries, pears, apples, grapes, etc. Citrus fruits and berries are also rich in vitamin C, which helps lower blood uric acid levels.
Whole grains
Whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oats are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and the excretion of uric acid.
Low-fat dairy products
Dairy products such as low-fat or skim milk, yogurt, and cheese are rich in calcium, which aids in the excretion of uric acid while also providing high-quality protein.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds contain healthy fats and trace elements, but be careful not to overdo it, as they are also higher in purines.
vegetable oil
Use vegetable oils (e.g., olive oil, canola oil) for cooking and reduce saturated fat intake.
3
Foods that should not be eaten with high uric acid
High-purine foods
Purines are the precursors of uric acid, which are produced after being metabolized in the body. Therefore, the intake of high-purine foods can increase blood uric acid levels. High-purine foods include:
Animal offal: such as liver, kidney, heart, brain, etc.
Red meat: Especially fatty meats, including beef, lamb, and pork.
Seafood: such as shrimp, crab, shellfish, marine fish and scallops.
High-purine vegetables: such as spinach and mushrooms, but they have a low effect on uric acid levels and need to be adjusted according to individual circumstances.
Refined carbohydrates
Refined white rice, white flour and other foods are not conducive to controlling blood sugar and reducing the production of uric acid due to the lack of dietary fiber. Comparatively speaking, whole grains such as brown rice and whole wheat contain more dietary fiber, which is more suitable for patients with high uric acid.
Sugar-sweetened drinks and fruit juices
Beverages and fruit juices containing high fructose corn syrup can increase uric acid production and should be avoided as much as possible.
Alcoholic beverages
Alcohol, especially beer and spirits, increases uric acid production and interferes with uric acid excretion. Therefore, people with high uric acid should limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
Saturated fat-rich foods
Excessive intake of saturated fats may affect the excretion of uric acid, so lean meat and low-fat dairy products should be chosen.
Caffeinated beverages
High intake of caffeine may increase uric acid production, and moderate consumption is recommended.
A sensible diet is essential to control hyperuricemia. Patients should follow the advice of their doctor or dietitian to develop a personalized diet plan with a balanced intake of various nutrients and regular monitoring of blood uric acid levels. At the same time, increasing water intake, maintaining an appropriate weight, and engaging in regular physical activity are also important measures to manage high uric acid.