Uric acid is a natural waste product in the body, formed when purines in food are metabolized. However, high uric acid levels can lead to gout, a form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of urate crystals in the joints. Among the foods high in purines, seafood and snails are often thought to increase the risk of gout if eaten in excess. However, eating boiled snails properly can help minimize the risk of increased uric acid.
Eat boiled snails to avoid increasing uric acid
Although snails contain purines, if eaten properly and in moderation, the risk of increased uric acid can be minimized. Nutritionists recommend eating boiled snails instead of cooking them with spices or other cooking methods that can increase purine levels. Boiling snails without adding too many spices or oils will help the body absorb less purines.
Eat snails combined with foods that help eliminate uric acid
Another way to minimize the effects of purines from snails is to combine them with foods that help the body eliminate uric acid more effectively. According to the World Health Organization, foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges, grapefruit, or green vegetables such as spinach help reduce uric acid in the body by promoting the excretion of uric acid through urine. Drinking enough water is also an important factor, because water helps the body eliminate uric acid through the kidneys.
Limit the amount and frequency of snail consumption
One of the important factors to eat snails without increasing uric acid is to control the amount eaten. People with gout or at risk of gout should limit their consumption of foods rich in purines. For snails, you should not eat too much at one time, especially when there are signs of gout. The safe level is to eat a moderate amount, not too often, so as not to increase uric acid in the body too much.
