Answer:

Gout is a metabolic disorder characterized by increased uric acid in the blood, leading to urate crystal deposits in joints, causing swelling, pain, and inflammation. The main causes include a diet rich in purines (purines are metabolized into uric acid, leading to gout), alcohol consumption, or impaired kidney function in eliminating uric acid.

Mushrooms are nutrient-rich, providing fiber, B vitamins, natural vitamin D, minerals like potassium and selenium, and many antioxidants. However, mushrooms also contain a certain amount of purines. The purine content in mushrooms typically ranges from 50-150 mg per 100 g fresh weight, which is moderate compared to red meat, organ meats, or seafood (200-400 mg per 100 g).

People with gout can eat mushrooms in moderation to avoid increasing uric acid. Photo: Trong Nghia

Individuals with gout, especially long-term vegetarians, can consume mushrooms as an alternative protein source but should be mindful of portion sizes, not exceeding 100-150 g per serving, 2-3 times a week. Prioritize a variety of foods from beans, nuts, and whole grains to ensure adequate nutrition and avoid complete reliance on mushrooms.

You should limit other high-purine foods like bean sprouts, lentils, and dried split peas. It's important to drink enough water to help eliminate uric acid, maintain a balanced diet with green vegetables, low-sugar fruits, and whole grains, combined with regular exercise, weight management, and limited alcohol intake. Supplementing with eggshell membrane extract, collagen type II, collagen peptides, chondroitin sulfate, and turmeric root extract can reduce pain and inflammation, regenerate cartilage and bone, and limit joint degeneration caused by gout.

You should have your uric acid levels checked regularly and consult a musculoskeletal specialist or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice to manage gout and maintain overall health while following a vegetarian diet. Adhering to treatment and monitoring uric acid, blood sugar, and blood lipid levels helps limit gout flare-ups and protect long-term joint health.

MSc. Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung

Nutrihome Nutrition Center