Purines are a natural substance found in many foods, particularly animal proteins. While many healthy foods contain purines, purine consumption can be a problem for some people, since purines create uric acid in the body during digestion. High levels of uric acid can contribute to gout and the formation of kidney stones. As a result, a low-purine diet is often recommended to help treat gout and kidney stones.
Goals
The goal of a low-purine diet is to limit the amount of purines that you consume; you do not need to eliminate purines entirely. A low-purine diet is, in many respects, quite similar to the type of healthy diet recommended for most people. While most people with gout typically continue to take medication, following a low-purine diet can help reduce symptoms of gout while helping you reach and maintain a healthy weight.
Foods to Limit
If you are on a low-purine diet, avoid high-purine protein sources like organ meats, herring, anchovies and mackerel. Limit other animal proteins, like beef, pork, chicken and fish, to 4 to 6 oz. a day. You should also limit your alcohol consumption, since alcohol interferes with your body's ability to dispose of uric acid. Gout sufferers should avoid beer, but may be able to drink one to two glasses of wine a day when not experiencing an attack. Avoid high-fat foods. To help control your weight, stay away from sugary foods.
Foods to Eat
MayoClinic.com recommends emphasizing plant-based proteins like beans and legumes. You should also eat low-fat or fat-free dairy products like milk, yogurt and cheese and plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Drink copious amounts of liquids, preferably around 16 cups per day, since water and other fluids help flush uric acid out of the body.
Weight Loss
Losing weight if you're overweight or obese can help reduce gout symptoms. Aim for gradual weight loss, however, since losing weight too quickly can boost uric acid levels. When choosing a weight loss strategy, stay away from low-carb diets that emphasize high intakes of fat and protein; fat and protein are usually high in purines.
Finding Your Tolerance
An important part of following a low-purine diet is also monitoring how your body reacts to different purine-containing foods. Foods that cause problems for some people may work well for you. Over time, you'll discover what foods you need to avoid and what foods you can eat without suffering repercussions.
