Can people with high uric acid levels eat crayfish?

Mar 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 40-year-old male. During a recent physical examination, I was found to have elevated uric acid levels, and my doctor has advised me to control my diet. I really enjoy eating crawfish, but I am unsure whether individuals with high uric acid levels can consume crawfish.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng

People with high uric acid levels are not advised to consume crawfish frequently or in large amounts. Crawfish are considered to be moderate- to high-purine foods; their high purine content can be metabolized into uric acid in the body, potentially worsening hyperuricemia and even triggering gout attacks. Additionally, crawfish are often prepared with heavy seasonings, such as spicy or deep-fried methods, which may have adverse effects on health. Therefore, frequent consumption of crawfish may impose additional burden on uric acid control and should be approached with caution.

If you strongly desire to eat crawfish, you may choose to consume a small amount and pay attention to the cooking method, preferably avoiding excessively oily or spicy preparations. Pairing them with low-purine foods, such as vegetables, can help balance the overall dietary composition. It is also advisable to drink plenty of water daily to promote uric acid excretion and reduce its accumulation in the body. In daily diet, priority should be given to low-purine foods such as milk, eggs, most vegetables, and fruits, while intake of seafood, organ meats, and alcohol should be limited. Regular monitoring of uric acid levels is recommended, and consulting a doctor for dietary adjustments when necessary will help ensure overall health and stable uric acid levels.