Purine is one of the most common chemical compounds found in all living things. They are made up of carbon and nitrogen atoms, and these molecules are found in cells’ DNA and RNA. In the human body, purines can be divided into two categories, the endogenous and exogenous purines. Endogenous purines are produced by the human body and found inside its cells, whereas exogenous purines are those that come from outside the body and are ingested as food. When endogenous and exogenous purines are processed in the body, they create a byproduct called uric acid. Normally, about 90% of uric acid is reabsorbed into the body, and the rest is excreted in the urine and feces.
Purine compounds, whether produced in the body or from eating high-purine foods, can raise the levels of uric acid. A buildup of uric acid crystals in soft tissues and joints as a result of too much uric acid can result in painful gout symptoms. Dietary management focuses on achieving and maintaining a healthy bodyweight as well as lowering the level of uric acid in the system. The primary dietary modification traditionally recommended is a low-purine diet.
It is recommended that people with gout or hyperuricemia must reduce their intake of foods and beverages high in purines. On a low-purine diet, foods that should be avoided include sugary foods and beverages such as softdrinks, seafood particularly anchovies, sardines, herring and scallops, some meats such as bacon and organ meats like liver, and alcoholic beverages such as beer. In addition to raising uric acid levels, alcohol can inhibit the body’s ability to process and eliminate uric acid, so people with gout are advised to avoid alcohol or drink in moderation. Consuming these foods and beverages in moderation may help treat hyperuricemia and lower your risk of gout flare-ups.
-DMO II Rowence F. Zorilla, RND
References:
1. What are Prurines?
https://www.arthritis-health.com/types/gout/what-are-purines
2. Which Foods are Safe for Gout?
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/nutrition/healthy-eating/which-foods-are-safe-for-gout#:~:text=High%2DPurine%20Foods%20Include%3A,and%20organ%20meats%20like%20liver
