Purines are natural compounds found in the cells of the body that are involved in things like forming DNA and RNA, as well as energy transfer. The purines we get from food are absorbed efficiently and quickly turn into uric acid. When uric acid levels in the blood get too high, it can crystallize in the joints, causing a painful gout attack. That's why people with gout are advised to limit foods high in purines, like organ meats, certain fish and shellfish, as well as alcohol.
Purine content in foods:
Very high - liver, kidneys, thymus, sardines, herring, anchovies, mackerel, beer, and alcoholic drinks
High - peas, turkey, lamb, beef, pork
Moderate - chicken, lentils, salmon, tuna, asparagus, spinach, mussels, soybeans, sugary soft drinks
Low - perch, orange, banana, yogurt, coffee, egg, oats, cherries, milk, almonds, berries, apple, broccoli, potato, rice, tea
