Does spinach increase uric acid levels?
Consultant Nutritionist and Fitness Trainer,
Texas, USA
Q: Does spinach increase the uric acid levels in blood?
A:Spinach is a green leafy vegetable with abundant vitamins. It is rich in nutrients like iron and fiber. Excellent levels of manganese are found in spinach. It also contains very good amounts of magnesium, potassium, iron and calcium. Copper, phosphorous, zinc are all found in good amounts in spinach. In addition, traces of selenium are also found. Spinach contains excellent amount of Vitamin K and Vitamin A. It is a very good source of Vitamin C. Good amounts of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Riboflavin are also found in spinach. It also contains traces of Thiamin and Niacin. Spinach contains naturally occurring substances called purines. In some individuals who are susceptible to purine-related problems, excessive intake of these substances can cause health problems. Since purines can be broken down to form uric acid, excess accumulation of purines in the body can lead to excess accumulation of uric acid. The health condition called gout and the formation of kidney stones from uric acid, are two examples of uric acid-related problems that can be related to excessive intake of purine-containing foods. For this reason, individuals with kidney problems or gout may want to limit or avoid intake of purine-containing foods such as spinach.