Enjoy Eating Chickpeas, Peanuts & Worried About Kidney Stones? What Your Need To Know
Chole Bhature. Shengdana Chutney. Chana Chaat. Masala Peanuts. There are so many tasty and fun dishes enjoyed by Indians. These legumes are packed with plant protein, dietary fibre, and healthy fats, making them staple foods in vegetarian and vegan diets. They are highly nutritious foods and can be part of a healthy diet plan, even for those worried about high uric acid levels.
Nonetheless, many people still tend to confuse whether the regular intake of chickpeas and peanuts could increase their risk of developing hyperuricemia or even gout problems. In orthopaedics, higher uric acid levels matter because chronic hyperuricemia can cause gout, which often affects joints such as the big toe, ankle, knee, and foot. We speak to Dr Abhijit Agashe, consultant – orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeon at Sahyadri Hospital, Kothrud, to understand more.
Chickpeas and peanuts both have moderate amounts of purines that are known to be converted into uric acid in the body. Nevertheless, both of these legumes are plant-based foods that produce purines, which have been shown by some researchers not to be as dangerous for gout sufferers as animal products like red meats, organ meats, and some fish types.
In any case, individuals who are predisposed to high uric acid, recurrent cases of gout attacks, kidney problems, obesity, and metabolic issues should pay close attention to their portion control as well as their general dietary habits. Overconsumption of any food can be detrimental to the body, especially if the individual is not properly hydrated, drinks excessively, and maintains a poor diet.
It is essential to understand that the whole picture is much more complicated than it initially seems. Proper hydration, being within healthy weight ranges, engaging in regular physical activities, and avoiding high-purine meat products are all significantly more beneficial. People who suffer from gout or joint pain symptoms shouldn’t avoid foods like chickpeas and peanuts; instead, speak to experts for correct dietary recommendations.
