If you have kidney trouble or a heart condition, it is important to maintain a diet that is low in purines. Purines are substances present in all healthy bodies and are responsible for maintaining healthy blood vessels. However, when consumed in large quantities, purines can crystalize into uric acid and settle in the joints, causing conditions like gout. Sticking to a low-purine diet is a must if you have this condition.
Fruits and Vegetables
Most fruits and vegetables are low in purines and great to bulk up your diet. Everything from broccoli, carrots and celery to peaches and pears are low in purines and help keep your diet well-balanced. Make soups without meat extracts and stick to all-natural fruit and vegetables juices.
Pasta
Most pasta is low in purines and perfectly acceptable to include in your diet. However, you if you need to watch your carbohydrates as well, it might be best to eat pasta only in moderation.
Low-Fat Foods
For the most part, foods that are low in fat are also low in purines. Stick to low-fat cheese, ice cream and skim milk when it comes to dairy products. Likewise, only opt for sweet treats like cookies and cakes in moderation, no more than a few times a week. Soups with a cream base should be made from low-fat milk as should puddings. Keep your egg intake to no more than three a week.
Water
Nothing helps move purines through your body faster than drinking plenty of water. Make sure that you take in the recommended eight 8-oz. glasses a day, to flush accumulated uric acid from the body. Don't go overboard, however. Drinking too much water is actually dangerous and can limit your body's nutrient absorbing abilities.
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