How to restrict purine intake in daily diet?

Hey friend, I get it, controlling what you eat can be really tough. I've been exploring this for a long time myself and have gathered some experience that I hope can help you. Don't overthink it; let's just treat it like a "traffic light" game.

Red Light Zone: Try to avoid these

Think of these foods as "minefields" – avoid them as much as possible, especially when your joints are feeling a bit off.

• Animal Offal and Rich Broths: Pig liver, kidneys, brains, as well as hotpot broth, long-simmered meat broths, and rich stocks are alarmingly high in purines. You can eat the meat, but absolutely avoid the broth.
• Some Seafood: Sardines, anchovies, dried small fish, and shellfish like scallops and clams are "purine bombs" among seafood.
• Alcohol, Especially Beer: Beer is the number one enemy! It contains purines itself and also hinders the body's uric acid excretion – a double whammy. Red wine is slightly better, but it's best to quit it altogether.

Yellow Light Zone: You can eat these, but "it depends"

These aren't completely off-limits, but you need to control the quantity and frequency. Don't eat them daily, and don't eat too much in one sitting.

• Most Meats: Pork, beef, lamb, chicken, duck, and fish are fine to eat. However, limit each serving to about the size of your palm, and preferably choose lean meat. For cooking methods, boiling before eating is better than frying, grilling, or deep-frying, as some purines will dissolve into the broth (remember not to drink the broth!).
• Legumes and Soy Products: Such as tofu, soy milk, and mung beans. Previously, it was said that people with gout shouldn't eat soy products, but current research suggests that plant-based purines have less impact. However, if you're in an acute flare-up, it's best to hold off for a bit; otherwise, moderate consumption is fine.
• Some Vegetables: Such as mushrooms, asparagus, spinach, and seaweed. Like soy products, these are plant-based, so generally, there's no need to worry too much; just eat them normally as side dishes.

Green Light Zone: Eat these freely

These are your "safe zone," and your daily diet should primarily consist of them.

• Most Vegetables: Cucumbers, tomatoes, cabbage, carrots, celery, etc., eat as much as you like.
• Fruits: Apples, pears, and bananas are all good. Cherries are especially recommended, as some studies suggest they can help lower uric acid. However, be careful not to eat too many fruits high in fructose in one sitting.
• Eggs, Dairy Products: Eggs, milk, and yogurt are all excellent sources of low-purine protein and are highly recommended.
• Staple Foods: Rice, noodles, steamed buns, and bread are all fine.

Finally, a few more crucial points:

1. Drink plenty of water! Drink plenty of water! Drink plenty of water! This is the most important point, even more crucial than dietary restrictions. Drink at least 2 liters of water daily (about 4 bottles of mineral water); plain water or light tea are fine. Adequate water intake is essential for smooth uric acid excretion.
2. Avoid sugary drinks: Drink fewer sugary beverages, especially those containing "high-fructose corn syrup," as it can also affect uric acid metabolism.
3. Listen to your body: Everyone's body is different; what's fine for others might make you uncomfortable. Experiment gradually to find the diet that works best for you.

Don't be too anxious; controlling your diet isn't about becoming an ascetic, but about enjoying food more intelligently once you understand the rules. Wishing you good health!