Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood and is often triggered by foods that are high in purines. Purines are found in proteins, and meats like venison, kidney, sweetbreads, organs and seafood can have very high purine concentrations. As a result, people with gout are advised to avoid these types of meats as well as other sources of proteins that are high in purines such as liver and kidney. Eggs, however, have a low purine content and can be a healthy protein source for gout sufferers. Although seafood and shellfish may contain higher amounts of purine than eggs, they can still be eaten in moderation if gout patients choose to do so.
Eating eggs can be beneficial for gout patients as it helps reduce high purine foods, which in turn reduces purine-rich foods. Consuming too much of these foods can worsen purines and increase their blood’s hyperuricemia. Eggs are one of the few animal and plant foods that contain uric acid, a chemical compound that converts purines and helps to prevent attacks. The uric acid present in eggs also helps break down purines and reduce the symptoms of gout. Eating eggs makes your body produce more uric acid, which can help lower your blood’s uric acid levels, reducing the risk of gout attacks or worsening symptoms.
Animal-based foods, such as eggs, contain protein purines which can increase the risk of developing gout. Therefore, it is important to also increase your intake of vegetables to balance out any potential negatives. Studies have indicated that eating asparagus and spinach can help reduce the risk of recurring gout attacks. Other studies have shown that eating these vegetables can also help lower uric acid levels in the body and reduce inflammation associated with gout.
Eating eggs is a great way for gout patients to get high satiety foods, including meat-free sources of protein. Eating enough protein can help reduce the amount of meat and fish intake, with foods like milk, tofu, cheese, and haricot beans being good sources. The lower purine content in these foods means that they are also helpful in reducing the quantity of fat dairy products consumed. Tofu is another great protein source for those looking for low-purine content meals. Adding tofu to the diet can ensure proper protein intake and reduce purine levels.
