Is the purine content high in purple flowering cabbage (cai tai)?

Dec 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
Introduction
From a nutritional standpoint, purpuric mustard (purple-stemmed rape) contains far less than the standard level of purines found in high-purine foods, making it a typical low-purine vegetable. Consuming this type of food does not significantly elevate blood uric acid levels, making it suitable for individuals who need to control their purine intake. It also provides essential nutrients such as vitamins and dietary fiber, helping to diversify and enrich the diet.

Generally, purple mustard spinach contains a low level of purines, making it suitable for people with gout or high uric acid levels to consume in moderation. However, excessive consumption may increase metabolic burden. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional beforehand. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Nutritionally, the purine content of purple mustard spinach per 100 grams is significantly lower than the threshold for high-purine foods, classifying it as a typical low-purine vegetable. Consumption of such foods does not markedly elevate blood uric acid levels, making them suitable for daily intake by individuals needing to control their purine intake. Additionally, they provide essential nutrients such as vitamins and dietary fiber, contributing to a more balanced diet.

However, being low in purines does not mean it can be consumed without limits. Consuming large amounts of purple mustard spinach over a short period may still lead to an increased total purine intake. Although each serving is low in purines, the cumulative effect could impose mild stress on uric acid metabolism. Particularly for individuals with unstable uric acid control, excessive consumption may raise the risk of discomfort; therefore, portion control is recommended.

Before consumption, thoroughly wash the purple mustard spinach. Individuals with gout or high uric acid levels should follow the principle of moderate intake, combine it with other low-purine ingredients, maintain a balanced diet, and regularly monitor their uric acid levels.