Can I eat tomatoes if my uric acid level is high?

Gout is a common condition in daily life, primarily caused by high uric acid levels. Therefore, it is essential to control the diet and avoid high-purine foods. Some people may mistakenly believe that all acidic foods should be avoided when uric acid levels are high, but this is not the case. High-purine foods primarily include seafood and animal viscera. Now, the question arises: can individuals with high uric acid levels consume tomatoes? The answer is yes, they can eat tomatoes without interfering with the treatment of the condition.

Tomatoes are naturally low in purines, containing approximately 4.3mg of purines per 100 grams. This purine content is suitable for gout patients or individuals with high uric acid levels, and it does not have a significant impact on their condition. It's important not to misunderstand tomatoes; their acidic taste is due to their high vitamin C content, approximately 14mg per 100 grams, along with some citric acid. When eaten raw, tomatoes provide numerous benefits, including clearing free radicals, enhancing immune function, and antioxidant effects that delay aging. These benefits are particularly advantageous for individuals with high uric acid levels.

1. Winter Melon: A commonly available food throughout the year, winter melon is inexpensive and beneficial for individuals with high uric acid levels. Its high water content helps increase urine volume and promote the excretion of uric acid, thereby regulating uric acid levels and promoting good health.

2. Cherries: A popular fruit, cherries are rich in vitamins C, anthocyanins, and other phenolic compounds. Although they can be pricey, especially in southern regions, cherries are a good choice for individuals with high uric acid levels due to their uric acid-lowering properties.

3. Pumpkin: A common and affordable vegetable, pumpkin is a favorite among many due to its soft, sweet texture and rich nutritional content. As an alkaline food, pumpkin helps excrete uric acid, making it suitable for individuals with high uric acid levels.

4. Cucumbers: Another inexpensive and commonly consumed food, cucumbers are crisp and juicy. They are alkaline in nature and rich in vitamin C, which helps dissolve and excrete uric acid salts in the body. Therefore, cucumbers are an excellent choice for individuals with high uric acid levels.