Individuals who suffer with gout - and even many who do not - are well aware of the role of diet in increasing the risk of a flare-up. For hundreds of years, gout has been known as an infliction of the wealthy - in other words, those who could afford to eat lots of rich foods and drinks such as red meat and game, cheese, and wine.
Yet, today we know there are many more foods that could potentially impact the risk of gout attacks. For example, how could high-purine vegetables like mushrooms affect gout?
Purines and a Gout-Friendly Diet
In recent decades, our understanding of gout has improved substantially. We now know that gout - an inflammatory form of arthritis - is linked to high uric acid levels in the blood (hyperuricemia). In turn, we also know that this can be exacerbated by elevated levels of purines, natural compounds found in the cells of almost all living things - including our own bodies. As such, common advice for those living with gout is to avoid purine-rich foods.
As hinted at above, this includes red meats such as beef, lamb and pork, game meats and organ meats, some seafood, dairy products, and processed foods. However, many are surprised to learn that foods that are otherwise considered healthy can also be high in purines. For example, vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, and fungi like mushrooms all have relatively high purine contents. So, does this mean mushrooms should be avoided if you have gout?
Mushrooms and Gout: To Avoid or Enjoy
For many, mushrooms are a staple of a healthy diet. They are tasty and versatile and have some impressive nutrition credentials. For instance, they are low in calories and contain a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Moreover, some evidence indicates that mushrooms may be useful in modulating immune function, maintaining heart health, and even supporting the management of neurodegenerative conditions.
Yet, in addition to these many healthy compounds, mushrooms also contain high levels of purines. You might fairly assume that this should make mushrooms a no-go for those aiming to lower their risk of gout attacks. However, current evidence indicates that this may not be necessary.
In fact, studies have found that high-purine vegetables and pulses such as spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, oats, beans, and lentils - as well as mushrooms - appear to have no impact on the risk of gout. Moreover, some evidence even indicates that mushroom consumption may be associated with a lower risk of hyperuricemia in men under 65 years of age; however, more research is needed to confirm this effect.
Conclusions
Mushrooms are used around the world in the preparation of a hugely diverse range of delicious meals. As such, they have become a staple for many people looking to benefit from their many nutritious benefits. In recent years, mushrooms have increasingly infiltrated the wellness sector, with mushroom supplements touted to aid with brain function and overall health.
Currently, evidence indicates that individuals living with gout need not exclude themselves from enjoying these benefits - even considering the high purine content of mushrooms. Overall, the available research indicates that mushrooms are a healthy addition to any diet - including a gout-friendly one.
So, there’s no reason you shouldn’t enjoy all that mushrooms have to offer. In addition to staying adequately hydrated and taking gout supplements, they may even make a positive change to your health.
