Can I eat pig's intestine if I have high uric acid?

Feb 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

A friend of mine has high uric acid levels and really wants to eat pig's large intestine (tripe), but we are unsure whether tripe has any impact on individuals with high uric acid. May I ask, can people with high uric acid eat pig's tripe?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Guang

Patients with high uric acid levels generally should not consume pork intestine. Pork intestine is an organ meat and considered a high-purine food. Uric acid is produced when the body ingests purines, which are oxidized in the body. Therefore, excessive intake of purines can cause persistent elevation of uric acid levels. Consuming pork intestine may further increase uric acid levels in patients with hyperuricemia, which is detrimental to the control of their condition.

Patients with high uric acid levels need to strictly control their intake of purines in their diet. In addition to pork intestine, other high-purine foods such as organ meats, seafood, and meat broths should also be avoided. Intake of protein also needs to be controlled, especially reducing consumption of red meat and organ meats. Furthermore, alcohol consumption should be avoided, as alcohol metabolism in the body produces lactic acid, which inhibits uric acid excretion.

Patients with high uric acid levels should choose low-purine foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals, which help promote uric acid excretion. Drinking plenty of water can also help increase urine production and aid in the removal of excess uric acid from the body.