Uric acid is a substance that is normally flushed from the body through the urine. Gout is a type of arthritis that is caused from an excessive buildup of uric acid in the system. When gout takes place, uric acid forms urate crystals that pool up at the joints, leading to pain, swelling, inflammation and redness. Foods that contain substances called purines should be avoided. Purines are converted to uric acid when they are digested.
Meats
All forms of meat, such as beef, chicken, turkey, pork and game meat, have purines in them. The livers, kidneys, sweetbreads, brains and hearts are especially high in purines, and extracts of meat, such as bouillon and gravy, contain purines. Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, tripe and hot dogs, also contain purines.
Fish
Salmon, snapper, mackerel, trout, tuna, halibut, bluefish, perch, sardines and anchovies are all types of large fish that have purines. Shellfish and seafood, such as crab, lobster, scallops, shrimp and mussels, all have purines as well. But these are also lean sources of protein. Coldwater fish, such as salmon, mackerel and halibut, also contain omega-3 fatty acids.
Vegetables
Vegetables containing purines include peas, asparagus, spinach, mushrooms and cauliflower. But even though they are high in purines, it doesn't mean that they are bad for you. Theses vegetables are still high in fiber, water content, vitamins and minerals.
Grains
Whole grains are high in fiber, which promotes regularity and satiety. Grains such as oatmeal, oat bran, wheat germ and wheat bran also have purines in them.
Alcohol
Yeast is a high-purine food. Brewer's yeast and baker's yeast are two forms that it comes in. Beer is a type of alcohol that is fermented with yeast. A form of beer or other alcohol that uses yeast contains purines.
Legumes
Legumes are seeds that have a pod surrounding them. Examples of legumes that contain purines include lentils, soybeans, black beans and garbanzo beans. Like whole grains, they are high in fiber and also have B vitamins and protein.
