Can people with gout eat dried nuts?
Disease description:
My father was just diagnosed with gout recently. Before that, he used to enjoy eating nuts without any problems. May I ask whether he can still eat nuts after having gout?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Gout patients can eat dried nuts, but should consume them in moderation. Dried nuts generally belong to foods with moderate purine content. Moderate consumption of dried nuts such as Brazil nuts and hazelnuts, which contain relatively lower levels of purines, will not significantly affect the uric acid levels in patients with gout. For example, walnuts are rich in protein, fats, minerals, and vitamins, and moderate consumption can help improve physical condition and prevent diseases. Because dried nuts are high in calories and fat, and gout patients often have comorbidities such as hyperlipidemia and obesity, excessive consumption should be avoided. It is recommended that daily intake of dried nuts not exceed 20–30 grams. Additionally, gout patients should also avoid dried nuts with medium to high purine content, such as peanuts, when making selections. During acute gout attacks, patients especially need to strictly limit intake of high-purine foods to promote uric acid excretion and stabilize their condition. At the same time, maintaining adequate water intake and engaging in appropriate physical activity also help in the management and prevention of gout.
