Can people with gout eat kimchi?
Disease description:
I usually eat kimchi with my meals, but I’ve had a gout flare-up these past few days and am unsure whether I should continue eating it. I’d like to know: Is it safe for people with gout to eat kimchi?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Aihua
Gout patients may consume kimchi, but only in moderation. Although kimchi is not particularly high in purines, it is a fermented food and tends to be high in salt and acidity. Excessive consumption of kimchi by gout patients may adversely affect health, potentially causing symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Additionally, gout patients should follow a low-salt, low-fat, and low-sugar diet; therefore, they may consume small amounts of kimchi occasionally. Gout is a metabolic disorder, and dietary management is critically important: total caloric intake must be reduced, and spicy or irritating foods should be avoided.
