Can people with gout drink honey?
Disease description:
Every morning, I drink honey water to soothe my gastrointestinal tract. However, I have gout and would like to know: Is it safe for people with gout to consume honey?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Patients with gout may consume honey in moderation. Since honey contains relatively low levels of purines, it is considered a low-purine food and can be safely consumed. In general, gout patients should limit or avoid high-purine, high-fat foods such as organ meats, red meat, seafood (e.g., fish, shrimp), shiitake mushrooms, soy products, and fatty/oily foods. Additionally, patients should quit smoking, restrict alcohol intake, drink plenty of water, and engage in moderate physical activity to promote uric acid excretion. During acute gout attacks, prompt oral administration of antipyretic-analgesic medications, uric acid–lowering agents, and drugs that enhance uric acid excretion is recommended; acupuncture and physical therapy may be used as adjunctive treatments when necessary.
