Watermelon is a popular summer fruit thanks to its cool, sweet taste, rich water and effective cooling. However, for people with high uric acid levels or are being treated for gout, eating watermelon needs to be of particular concern. Because if used incorrectly, the amount of sugar in melon can indirectly affect the metabolism of purines and increase the risk of gout recurrence.
According to the medical website Medical News Today, although watermelon does not contain purines, compounds directly related to the formation of uric acid, this fruit has a fairly high glycemic index (GI). 100g of watermelon contains about 67g of natural sugar, mainly fructose. Excessive fructose consumption can cause the liver to increase uric acid production as a byproduct of metabolism.
Dr. Robert H. Shmerling, a low-orthopedic expert at Harvard Medical School (USA), once warned: Fructose is a substance that, whether from fruit or soft drinks, can still trigger the increase in uric acid synthesis in the liver. This does not mean that gout patients should completely abstain from fruit, but they need to choose the right fruit and control their portion sizes."
Among other fruits, watermelon can still be included in the diet of people with high uric acid, with the right conditions.
Eat in moderation: No more than 12 small slices (about 150200g) at a time, up to 23 times a week.
Do not eat watermelon on an empty stomach to avoid sudden increases in blood sugar.
Do not eat with foods rich in purines: For example, seafood, organs, red meat... to reduce the metabolic burden on the liver and kidneys.
Do not use bottled watermelon juice: Because it often contains added sugar, it increases the risk of metabolic disorders.
Watermelon has up to 90% of water, helping to increase urine excretion, which is a beneficial factor for uric acid excretion. In addition, this fruit also contains citrulline, an amino acid that can help dilate blood vessels, improve circulation and reduce mild inflammation.
In particular, for people with gout who are in a stable stage, eating cool watermelon on hot days can help supplement electrolytes, increase satiety and support weight control, a key factor in controlling metabolic diseases.
However, if you are in the stage of acute gout, which is severe swelling and pain in the joints, you should limit eating fruits with a strong sweet taste, including watermelon, to avoid further metabolic disorders.
In addition, you should combine watermelon with a diet low in purines, green vegetables, whole grains and enough filtered water, while increasing light exercise and controlling weight. This is a comprehensive solution to help gout patients stay healthy while still enjoying many favorite dishes - safely and controlled.
