Which category of foods contributes most to a high purine diet?

Which category of foods contributes most to a high purine diet?

• A. Coffee
• B. Milk
• C. Beef
• D. Legumes

Answer: (C)

Purines are compounds in foods that are metabolized into uric acid. When purine intake is high, uric acid levels can rise, increasing the risk of gout. Beef stands out because red meats have high purine content, especially in muscle tissue, making it the largest contributor to a high purine diet among common foods. Other options contain far fewer purines: coffee has little, milk is low in purines, and legumes contain purines but generally at lower levels than beef.

Purines are compounds in foods that are metabolized into uric acid. When purine intake is high, uric acid levels can rise, increasing the risk of gout. Beef stands out because red meats have high purine content, especially in muscle tissue, making it the largest contributor to a high purine diet among common foods. Other options contain far fewer purines: coffee has little, milk is low in purines, and legumes contain purines but generally at lower levels than beef.