Is Kala Chana Good for Uric Acid? A Comprehensive Guide

December 29, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2024 study, high dietary fiber intake is inversely associated with serum uric acid levels, suggesting diet can significantly influence hyperuricemia. Kala chana, or black chickpeas, are renowned for their high fiber content, leading many to question their role in managing or exacerbating uric acid-related conditions like gout.

Quick Summary

Kala chana can be included in a diet for managing uric acid, but moderation is key. It contains moderate levels of purines, but its high fiber content is beneficial for uric acid excretion. Cooking methods like soaking and boiling can further reduce purine levels. A balanced, low-purine diet and proper preparation methods are essential for those with gout or hyperuricemia.

Key Points

Moderation is Key: While kala chana contains moderate purines, it can be safely consumed in moderation as part of a low-purine diet.
High in Beneficial Fiber: The high dietary fiber content in kala chana aids in the excretion of uric acid and counteracts the effects of its purine content.
Proper Preparation Reduces Purines: Soaking overnight and then boiling can help reduce the purine levels in kala chana, making it safer for those with hyperuricemia.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Kala chana contains anti-inflammatory compounds like anthocyanins that may help manage the joint inflammation associated with gout.
Balanced Diet is Crucial: Combining kala chana with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy is more effective for managing uric acid than focusing on a single food.
Avoid Sugary Drinks and Excessive Alcohol: These beverages can significantly increase uric acid levels and should be limited in a gout-friendly diet.

Understanding Uric Acid and Diet

High levels of uric acid in the blood, a condition known as hyperuricemia, can lead to gout, a painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the crystallization of uric acid in the joints. Uric acid is a byproduct of the body breaking down purines, which are natural substances found in many foods. For a long time, patients with gout were advised to strictly limit all high-purine foods. However, recent research has clarified that the source of purines—plant-based versus animal-based—matters significantly.

Unlike animal purines found in red meat and organ meats, plant-based purines from foods like legumes and vegetables do not appear to increase the risk of gout attacks. This is partly because high-purine vegetables and legumes contain beneficial compounds, such as high dietary fiber, which help modulate uric acid levels. Therefore, understanding the composition of different foods is critical for creating an effective diet plan.

The Nutritional Profile of Kala Chana

Kala chana is a powerhouse of nutrients, making it a valuable addition to many diets. It is rich in protein, dietary fiber, iron, folate, magnesium, and other essential vitamins and minerals. A typical 100-gram serving of boiled kala chana is packed with beneficial components. Its high fiber content, in particular, has been shown to play a crucial role in gut health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria and potentially assisting in the excretion of uric acid through the digestive tract.

One of the main concerns for those with high uric acid is the purine content. While kala chana contains moderate amounts of purines, research suggests that the high fiber and other compounds in legumes can help counteract this effect. The anti-inflammatory properties of kala chana, attributed to compounds like anthocyanins and butyrate, can also be beneficial in managing the inflammation associated with gout.

Comparing Kala Chana and Other Protein Sources

To make an informed decision, it's helpful to compare kala chana with other common protein sources regarding uric acid management. The following table provides a breakdown:


Feature	Kala Chana	Red Meat	Seafood (e.g., Sardines)	Dairy (Low-fat)
Purine Content	Moderate	High	High	Low
Dietary Fiber	High	None	None	Low
Uric Acid Impact	Generally considered safe in moderation due to fiber benefits	Increases uric acid levels and gout risk	Can trigger gout attacks	Can lower uric acid risk
Inflammatory Effect	Contains anti-inflammatory compounds	Pro-inflammatory	Mixed effects, some seafood can be pro-inflammatory	Anti-inflammatory, particularly low-fat options
Overall Recommendation	Include in moderation with proper preparation	Avoid or strictly limit	Avoid or strictly limit high-purine types	Excellent choice for a gout-friendly diet

Safe Preparation Methods for Kala Chana

For individuals concerned about uric acid levels, the way kala chana is prepared can make a difference. Soaking and boiling are two simple yet effective methods to help reduce its purine content and improve digestibility.

Soaking: Soaking kala chana overnight is a crucial first step. This not only makes it easier to digest but also helps in the removal of some purines. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas thoroughly before cooking to wash away the discarded purines.
Boiling: Boiling the pre-soaked kala chana in fresh water is the next important step. This further reduces the purine levels. As mentioned in some traditional practices, boiling and then steaming can balance digestive properties.
Gentle Cooking: Avoid cooking kala chana with heavy, spicy masalas, which can cause digestive stress. A simple, lightly spiced preparation is safer for those with high uric acid. The use of carom seeds (ajwain) can also help with digestion.

Diet and Lifestyle for Uric Acid Management

While kala chana can be a safe and nutritious part of a balanced diet, it's just one piece of a larger picture for managing uric acid. A holistic approach focusing on overall diet and lifestyle is most effective. Here are some key strategies:

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for flushing excess uric acid from the body through the kidneys.
Limit Sugary Drinks: High-fructose corn syrup and other added sugars can increase uric acid levels. Opt for water, herbal teas, or coffee, which has been shown to lower serum uric acid.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body fat can contribute to higher uric acid production and decreased excretion. Losing weight can significantly help manage uric acid levels.
Incorporate Anti-inflammatory Foods: Include other foods known for their anti-inflammatory effects and ability to lower uric acid, such as cherries, fruits high in Vitamin C, and low-fat dairy.
Consult a Professional: Always talk to a doctor or dietitian before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have a pre-existing condition like gout.

Conclusion

For individuals with high uric acid, the question of whether kala chana is a safe food depends heavily on moderation and preparation. While it contains moderate purine levels, its high dietary fiber content offers a beneficial counter-effect by promoting the excretion of excess uric acid. By consuming kala chana in limited quantities and preparing it through soaking and boiling, it can be a valuable and nutritious component of a balanced, low-purine diet. Combining this approach with other healthy lifestyle practices, such as hydration, weight management, and avoiding sugary drinks, provides a comprehensive strategy for effectively managing uric acid levels and reducing the risk of gout flare-ups.

Remember, personal health conditions can vary, so consulting a healthcare professional is always the best course of action to create a tailored dietary plan.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have a medical condition.]

Further Resources

Healthline: Best Diet for Gout: Food Lists and Meal Plan

Citations

Association between serum uric acid levels and dietary fiber intake among Chinese adults: findings from the China Nutrition and Health Surveillance (2015). BMC Nutrition. 2022. PMC9003369
This is why people with uric acid must avoid certain legumes. Times of India. 2025.
How to Reduce Uric Acid Naturally. Healthline. 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kala chana contains moderate, not high, levels of purines. While some sources mistakenly classify legumes as high-purine foods, research shows that plant-based purines do not pose the same risk for gout attacks as animal-based purines.

To minimize the impact, soak the kala chana overnight, then drain and boil it in fresh water. These steps help reduce its purine content and make it easier to digest. Avoid adding heavy spices or rich gravy.

Yes, dietary fiber is beneficial for managing uric acid levels. It helps bind uric acid in the digestive system, promoting its excretion from the body. Kala chana is a great source of this fiber.

Yes, you can eat kala chana in moderation. It is important to pay attention to portion size and proper cooking methods (soaking and boiling). Always consult your healthcare provider or a dietitian to determine the right amount for your specific condition.

If you have high uric acid, you should limit or avoid high-purine foods like red meat, organ meats, and certain types of seafood (e.g., sardines, anchovies). Additionally, limit sugary beverages, as they can increase uric acid production.

Yes, kala chana offers numerous other health benefits. It is a great source of protein and fiber, aids in digestion, and contains antioxidants that can reduce inflammation.

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps the kidneys filter and excrete excess uric acid from the body more efficiently. This is a simple but critical part of managing high uric acid levels.