Can people with high uric acid levels eat pumpkin?
Generally, people with high uric acid levels can consume pumpkin, but they should do so in moderation. Detailed explanations are as follows:
Pumpkin contains low levels of purines and is considered a typical low-purine food. Its consumption does not significantly increase uric acid levels in the body and does not加重 the burden on uric acid metabolism. Secondly, pumpkin is rich in dietary fiber, which promotes intestinal motility and helps regulate metabolism, thereby indirectly assisting in the excretion of uric acid. Additionally, pumpkin is low in calories and rich in nutrients such as β-carotene and vitamin C. It provides essential nutrients to the body without easily causing obesity. Obesity is one of the risk factors for elevated uric acid levels, so moderate pumpkin consumption helps maintain a healthy weight.
Although pumpkin is suitable for consumption, its intake should be controlled to avoid affecting the intake of other foods due to excessive consumption, which may lead to nutritional imbalances. It is also recommended to choose light cooking methods such as steaming or boiling, avoiding the addition of large amounts of sugar or oil, to prevent excessive calorie intake, which may negatively affect uric acid control. Moreover, pumpkin consumption should complement the overall dietary structure and should not replace other low-purine ingredients. A diverse diet is necessary to meet the body's nutritional needs.