Purine Rich Foods

Purines are chemicals that break down into uric acid in the body. Some purines are produced by your body, but for the most part, purines enter the body through your diet. Most of the time, purines are broken down into uric acid and transported out of the body through urine and solid waste, but some people's bodies don't dispose of uric acid effectively, causing high levels of uric acid to build up in the body. High levels of uric acid can lead to a number of health problems, including gout, kidney stones and kidney failure. If you have high levels of uric acid in your body, it's a good idea to minimize your intake of these purine-rich foods.

Highest Levels of Purine

If you have high uric acid levels, you should avoid organ meats, including liver, kidneys and sweetbreads. Also steer clear of meat extracts, such as gravies and meat broths. It's also a good idea to avoid caviar. These foods have the highest purine levels and are the most likely to cause excess production of uric acid when your body digests them.

High Levels of Purine

You should plan to limit your intake of oily fish, such as mackerel and sardines, as well as shellfish, including shrimp, lobster and crab, which contain significant amounts of purine. Also minimize beans in your diet---peas, broad beans, haricots and lentils are all sources of purine. Avocados, too, have naturally high purine levels and should be eaten only in moderation.

Minimal Levels of Purine

Because these foods have fairly low levels of purine, it's safe to consume them in moderation unless your health care provider has you on a strict purine-free diet. Mushrooms, cauliflower and spinach all contain some purine, as do oatmeal, tea, coffee and chocolate. Most meats, including bacon, turkey, beef and chicken contain some purine.