Can patients with gout drink Pu'er tea?
Disease description:
After my father had gout, he had many dietary restrictions. Yesterday at a relative's wedding banquet, he drank some Pu'er tea. I would like to ask whether this could have any adverse effects—Is it okay for him to drink Pu'er tea?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Gout patients can drink Pu'er tea, but should do so in moderation and avoid strong tea. Pu'er tea has low purine content, with less than 25 mg of purines per 100 grams. Normal consumption will not significantly increase uric acid levels in the body and therefore will not exacerbate gout symptoms. In addition, Pu'er tea has a diuretic effect that helps assist in lowering uric acid levels. Pu'er tea is also rich in various bioactive substances, such as amino acids, organic acids, minerals, and polyphenols, which are beneficial to health and can enhance immunity and prevent diseases. Excessive consumption of strong tea may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa and cause discomfort; therefore, moderate consumption is recommended. Gout patients should also follow the principle of a low-purine diet and avoid consuming high-purine foods to control uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks.
