Purine-Rich Food: Foods To Be Eaten In Moderation To Control Gout

Highlights

• Purines are chemical compounds that are found in human body cell
• Purines are broken down into uric acid during our digestion process
• Excess of purine in our body can result in gout and other serious problem

Purines are known to be chemical compounds that are widely found in every cell of the human body and in various other plant and animal-based foods. These compounds are colourless and in crystal form. They are broken down into uric acid during digestion process in our body. This whole process is quite healthy as the uric acid acts as a powerful antioxidant, which further protects the layers (lining) of our blood vessels. Not only this, they also have an important role to play in DNA and RNA synthesis. However, excess of purine in our body can result in gout and other serious problems. Therefore, this brings us to the question - is it safe to consume purine-rich foods or not? Let's find out!

Effects Of Purine In Our Body

As we know that having an excess of purine in our body will increase the level of uric acid, which ultimately results in gout. But, what is gout? It is one of the most critical and painful rheumatoid conditions that commonly affect joints, mainly our toe and ankle, and if not treated in time, can lead to serious joint problems.

The symptoms of gout attack are mostly noted to be unexpected. They may, or may not, last for a few days or weeks. In some cases, it starts with a sudden chronic pain in the joints, whereas it shows a few common symptoms before getting serious. These common symptoms include swelling, inflammation, red or purple skin around the joints, and sudden and extreme heating of the joint(s).(Also Read: Oats, Tofu, Nuts & More: 10 Things You Must Eat For a Healthy Heart)

However, maintaining a healthy diet can reduce the risk of gout attacks. Therefore, we need to keep a track of the purine-rich foods that we consume on daily basis. According to experts, food items with more than 100 milligrams of purine per 100 grams serving are considered as purine-rich foods, wherein it is advised only to limit our purine intake to less than 100 milligrams a day. Having said that, here is a list of some purine-rich foods that we can consume in moderation.

Let's Start With Purine-Rich Vegetables And Fruits:

1. Raisins
Raisins are simple dehydrated grapes that are rich in vitamin B, potassium and iron. They are an amazing source of energy and healthy carbohydrates.
 

_{Raisins are rich in vitamin B, potassium and iron}

2. Broccoli
Broccoli is known to be a rich source of vitamins C and K. It is also known to have high amounts of antioxidants and other compounds that fight swelling.

3. Apricot
Apricots are known to have good amount of potassium, which helps our heart to function well and also in muscle contraction.

(Also Read: 8 Amazing Apricot Benefits: The Nutritional Heavyweight Among Fruits)

_{Apricots helps our heart to function well.} 

4. Artichoke
Artichokes have high amounts of fibre and keep your blood sugar and blood pressure in control. They play as a protagonist when it comes to fighting the bad cholesterol in our body.

Now, Let's Talk About Purine-Rich Meat And Seafood:

1. Chicken
We all know that chicken is a very good source of protein and comprises all the essential amino acids. Eating right amount of chicken can also increase vitamin B3 in our body, which is mainly responsible for converting carbs into energy.

2. Salmon
It's a well-known fact that salmon has a good amount of omega-3 content, which helps to improve our heart and brain health; lowers the cholesterol level; and even improves our skin and hair.

(Also Read: 9 Incredible Benefits of Salmon Fish You May Not Have Known​)
 

_{Salmon has a good amount of omega-3 content.}


3. Shrimp
Shrimps are an excellent source of high-quality lean protein. Like pork, they have all the essential amino acids. Apart from this, shrimps also contain zinc and selenium, which may boost energy production and immunity.

4. Pork
Pork primarily comprises protein and all the essential amino acids. Moreover, it is rich in vitamin B and thiamine that helps in various bodily functions.
 

_{Pork is rich in vitamin B and thiamine that helps in various bodily functions.}


Finally, Purine-Rich Beans And Legumes:

1. Moong Beans
They are known to be rich in fibre, which will keep you up for long periods and keeping your hunger pangs at bay. They are also rich in nutrients like potassium, magnesium and vitamin B.
 

2. Soybeans

Soybeans are one of the best sources of protein. They have a good amount of fibre that keeps us full for a longer time.

3. Lentils
Just like soybeans, lentils are also a good source of protein. They are also quite beneficial for our heart; all thanks to minerals like folate and magnesium present in them.
 

4. White Beans
The presence of antioxidants in white beans may keep inflammatory ailments at bay. They are also rich in folate, which is known to keep our brain active.

Note:  Following a diet as a means to control gout, one should consult a medical professional. Also, consult your doctor first before continuing or discontinuing any medicine for gout.