Are eggs bad for uric acid? Unpacking the facts for gout management

November 2, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 58 million people globally struggle with gout, a form of arthritis caused by excess uric acid. A common question for those managing this condition is: are eggs bad for uric acid, and do they contribute to flare-ups? The answer, supported by extensive research, is a reassuring no.

Quick Summary

Eggs are low in purines, the compounds that break down into uric acid, making them a safe protein source for individuals with gout. Including eggs in a balanced, low-purine diet does not raise uric acid levels and can be part of an effective strategy for managing gout symptoms.

Key Points

Low Purine Content: Eggs contain very low amounts of purines, the compounds that form uric acid, making them safe for gout patients.
Not a Gout Trigger: Studies have shown no significant link between egg consumption and an increased risk of gout attacks or flare-ups.
Versatile Protein Alternative: Eggs are a great, low-purine alternative to high-purine protein sources like red meat and certain seafood.
Kidney Health Considerations: For individuals with chronic kidney disease, a doctor may advise limiting egg yolks due to higher phosphorus content, suggesting egg whites instead.
Focus on Healthy Pairings: The preparation and accompaniments matter; avoid high-purine additions like bacon and opt for vegetables or whole grains.
Holistic Dietary Approach: Managing gout requires more than focusing on one food; it involves a balanced, low-purine diet and maintaining a healthy weight.

The Uric Acid-Purine Connection

Gout is a painful inflammatory condition caused by an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream, known as hyperuricemia. This excess can lead to the formation of sharp urate crystals in the joints, causing sudden and severe pain and swelling. Uric acid is a natural byproduct of the body's breakdown of purines, which are chemical compounds found in many foods. Therefore, managing dietary purine intake is a key strategy for controlling uric acid levels and preventing gout attacks.

Eggs: A Low-Purine Protein Source

Contrary to some misconceptions, eggs are considered a low-purine food and are safe to consume for those with high uric acid or gout. In fact, several studies have shown that eggs are not associated with an increased risk of gout attacks. A 2014 study found that hen and quail eggs contained virtually no detectable purines, cementing their status as a safe dietary component.

This makes eggs an excellent alternative to high-purine protein sources like red meat and organ meats. Their versatility allows them to be easily incorporated into a variety of meals without the risk of raising uric acid levels.

High-Purine Foods vs. Eggs

To better understand why eggs are a favorable choice, it is helpful to compare their purine content with other common protein sources. This comparison highlights the importance of choosing protein carefully when managing uric acid levels.


Food Source (per 100g)	Purine Content (mg)	Uric Acid Diet Suitability
Eggs	Very Low (<15)	Excellent
Organ Meats (e.g., Liver)	Very High (>200)	Avoid
Red Meat (e.g., Beef)	High (100-200)	Limit
Seafood (e.g., Sardines, Shellfish)	High (>100)	Limit/Avoid
Chicken (Skinless)	Medium (approx. 75-100)	Moderation
Low-Fat Dairy	Very Low (<15)	Excellent
Tofu	Low (<50)	Excellent

The Role of Eggs in a Comprehensive Gout Diet

While eggs are a safe addition, a comprehensive approach is needed to effectively manage uric acid levels. A balanced diet should emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.

Beyond the Egg: Healthy Pairings and Preparations

Smart Combinations: While eggs are low-purine, many traditional accompaniments are not. Avoid serving eggs with high-purine meats like bacon or ham. Instead, opt for pairings with vegetables, low-fat cheese, or whole-grain toast.
Hydration is Key: Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys flush excess uric acid from the body. Aim for at least eight glasses a day.
Other Beneficial Foods: Incorporate foods that may actively help lower uric acid or reduce inflammation. Cherries, low-fat dairy, and coffee are often cited as beneficial additions to a gout diet.
Recipe Ideas
- Veggie Frittata: A delicious frittata with mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers provides protein and vegetables without high purine levels.
- Egg and Avocado Toast: A nutrient-dense breakfast pairing low-purine eggs with healthy fats.
- Egg Drop Soup: A simple, comforting, and low-purine soup option.

Eggs and Chronic Kidney Disease

It is important to note that dietary recommendations can differ for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), a condition that can be related to high uric acid. The yolk of an egg contains higher levels of phosphorus, a nutrient that may need to be restricted in advanced CKD. In such cases, a healthcare provider might recommend prioritizing egg whites to gain protein benefits while managing phosphorus intake. It is always best to consult with a doctor or renal dietitian for personalized advice, as each patient’s needs vary.

For more information on managing gout, consider visiting the Arthritis Foundation's website.

Conclusion: The Egg-cellent Answer

The belief that eggs are detrimental for those with high uric acid is a myth. Scientific evidence confirms that eggs are a safe and healthy protein source for managing gout due to their very low purine content. By incorporating eggs into a balanced, low-purine dietary plan—rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains—and avoiding high-purine pairings, individuals can effectively support their gout management efforts. As with any dietary change for a medical condition, a personalized approach in consultation with a healthcare professional is always recommended to achieve the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, eating eggs every day is not likely to increase your uric acid levels. Eggs are very low in purines, so their regular consumption does not contribute to higher uric acid or trigger gout attacks.

While the purine content in the whole egg is low, the yolk does contain more phosphorus, which can be a concern for those with chronic kidney disease. For most people, consuming the whole egg is fine, but those on a renal diet may be advised to favor egg whites.

The best methods are boiling, scrambling, or poaching with minimal oil. The key is to avoid high-fat and high-purine additions like bacon, ham, or rich sauces.

Other excellent low-purine protein sources include low-fat dairy products, tofu, legumes (such as beans and lentils), and most nuts and seeds.

Yes, eggs can be eaten during a gout flare-up. Since they are low in purines and don't raise uric acid levels, they provide a safe and healthy source of protein during an attack.

No, cooking eggs does not change their purine content. However, cooking with excessive fat or pairing them with high-purine ingredients like bacon or ham should be avoided.

While a low-purine diet, including eggs, is beneficial for managing gout symptoms and reducing flare-ups, it is often not enough on its own. Most people with gout will also require medication to effectively manage their uric acid levels.

Foods to limit or avoid include organ meats, red meats, some seafood (like sardines and mussels), sugary drinks, and alcohol (especially beer and liquor).