Are Brussels Sprouts OK to Eat If You Have Gout?

December 1, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Arthritis Foundation, many high-purine vegetables do not raise the risk of gout attacks in the same way as high-purine animal-based foods. Given this, many people with gout wonder: are Brussels sprouts ok to eat if you have gout?

Quick Summary

Brussels sprouts are generally safe and beneficial for individuals with gout. They are low in purines and rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, all of which support overall health and inflammation management. Including them in a balanced, low-purine diet is recommended.

Key Points

Low-Purine Content: Brussels sprouts contain low to moderate amounts of purines, making them a safe vegetable choice for a gout diet.
Rich in Vitamin C: The high vitamin C content in Brussels sprouts may help lower uric acid levels and reduce the risk of gout attacks.
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Brussels sprouts are packed with antioxidants like kaempferol, which have anti-inflammatory effects that can aid in managing gout symptoms.
Source of Fiber: Their high fiber content promotes healthy digestion and is a core part of a balanced, low-purine diet.
Different from Animal Purines: Studies show that purines from vegetables do not have the same negative impact on gout as purines from high-intake animal products.
Proper Preparation: Roasting and steaming are recommended cooking methods to preserve nutrients while avoiding unhealthy additives.

Understanding Gout and Purines

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the body, which leads to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. The body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines, naturally occurring substances found in many foods. A diet high in purines, especially from certain sources, can lead to elevated uric acid levels and trigger painful gout flares.

For many years, people with gout were advised to strictly limit their intake of all high-purine foods, including certain vegetables. However, modern research has provided a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between diet and gout. Today, it's widely accepted that the source of purines matters significantly. While purines from meat, seafood, and alcohol are strongly linked to gout flares, purines from vegetables do not pose the same level of risk.

The Purine Content of Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts fall into the low-to-moderate purine category. Various dietary guidelines, including those from major health institutions, classify them as safe for people with gout. In fact, their nutritional profile offers several benefits that can help manage gout and improve overall health.

The Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts for Gout Sufferers

Beyond their low purine content, Brussels sprouts contain a wealth of nutrients that can be beneficial for those managing gout. These tiny vegetables are packed with powerful antioxidants, which combat inflammation—a key component of gout flares.

Rich in Vitamin C: A single cup of cooked Brussels sprouts provides a significant portion of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C. Research has shown that Vitamin C can help lower uric acid levels and may reduce the risk of gout attacks.
Excellent Source of Fiber: Brussels sprouts are a high-fiber food that aids digestion and can help stabilize blood sugar levels. A diet rich in fiber is a cornerstone of a healthy, gout-friendly eating plan.
Packed with Antioxidants: They contain potent antioxidants like kaempferol and sulforaphane, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help mitigate the painful effects of gout.
Good for Heart Health: These vegetables also contain Omega-3 fatty acids and potassium, which help to lower cholesterol and maintain healthy blood pressure. Managing heart health is crucial for individuals with chronic conditions like gout.

How to Incorporate Brussels Sprouts into a Gout-Friendly Diet

To get the most out of Brussels sprouts while managing gout, consider these preparation tips:

Steaming or Roasting: Cooking methods like steaming or roasting are ideal. They preserve more nutrients compared to boiling, which can leach some vitamins into the water.
Use Healthy Fats: Pair your sprouts with healthy fats like olive oil. Avoid heavy, creamy sauces, which can add unhealthy fats and calories.
Combine with Other Low-Purine Foods: Serve Brussels sprouts with lean protein sources like chicken breast or tofu and other low-purine vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage.
Mindful Portions: While generally safe, moderation is key for all foods. Enjoy a sensible portion size as part of a balanced diet.

Comparison Table: High-Purine vs. Low-Purine Foods

To put Brussels sprouts into context, here is a comparison of typical purine levels in various foods. This highlights why high-purine vegetables are treated differently from animal-based high-purine foods.


Food Item	Purine Content (mg/100g)	Gout Management Status
Brussels Sprouts	~25 mg	Low-to-moderate, safe in moderation
Anchovies	410 mg	High, should be avoided
Liver (e.g., beef)	225 mg	High, should be avoided
Sardines	370 mg	High, should be avoided
Asparagus	10-25 mg	Moderate, safe in moderation
Spinach	21-25 mg	Moderate, safe in moderation
Chicken breast	175 mg	High, should be limited
Low-fat dairy	0 mg	Low, beneficial for gout

Conclusion: The Verdict on Brussels Sprouts and Gout

For individuals with gout, Brussels sprouts are not only acceptable but can be a healthy addition to the diet. Unlike high-purine meats and certain seafoods, the purines in Brussels sprouts do not significantly increase the risk of gout flares. Instead, their high content of Vitamin C, fiber, and anti-inflammatory antioxidants can support overall health and help manage gout symptoms. As with any dietary component, moderation and a balanced approach are essential. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to create a personalized gout management plan.

For further guidance on diet and gout management, the Mayo Clinic provides excellent resources and up-to-date information on gout-friendly eating plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, people with gout can eat Brussels sprouts as they are a low-purine vegetable. They can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy, balanced diet, unlike high-purine foods like organ meats and certain seafood.

No, most vegetables are low in purines and are highly beneficial for a gout-friendly diet. While some vegetables like spinach and asparagus contain moderate purine levels, they do not increase the risk of gout flares in the same way as high-purine animal foods.

Brussels sprouts help with gout by providing a low-purine source of nutrition, rich in vitamin C and anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Vitamin C can help lower uric acid levels, while the antioxidants combat inflammation associated with gout attacks.

Brussels sprouts have a low-to-moderate purine content, similar to other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli. They are not considered a high-purine vegetable and are safe for consumption in moderation.

The best cooking methods for Brussels sprouts are roasting, steaming, or sautéing. These methods preserve more of the vegetable's nutrients compared to boiling, and it's best to use healthy fats like olive oil.

No, there is no need to avoid Brussels sprouts during a gout flare-up. Their low purine content and anti-inflammatory properties make them a suitable food choice even during an attack.

Excellent vegetables for a gout diet include carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, celery, and cabbage, as they are all low in purines. Most fruits are also safe, especially cherries, which have been shown to help lower uric acid.