Oatmeal for cholesterol and uric acid:

I have cholesterol and uric acid I have heard that some foods which are good to lower cholesterol are not good for uric acid as in the case of oatmeal, please advice.

Most of the foods that have a cholesterol lowering effect can be consumed by a person with high uric acid.



For instance oatmeal is both low in fat or cholesterol and purines - the two main factors restricted in high cholesterol and high uric acid level diets respectively. Oatmeal is a type of cereal which is not high in proteins or purines. So oatmeal can be consumed by a person with high uric acid levels.



Oatmeal is also high in fiber and other nutrients and at the same time it is very low in total fat and has negligible cholesterol. So it is an ideal way to start a day if you have high cholesterol levels. Like oatmeal some other foods that help to lower cholesterol levels include fenugreek seeds, garlic, fresh fruits and vegetables and a low fat diet.



All these foods are not restricted in a patient with high uric acid levels unless he/she is obese (fat is restricted in the diet of an obese person).

The main food that should be consumed in restricted amounts if you have high uric acid levels is food with high purines. These foods include fish, pork, meat and meat products, organ meats (like liver, brain, and kidney), shellfish and yeast. Some vegetables like spinach, peas and asparagus are considered good source of purines so they should be avoided. The gravy of meat, poultry and fish is also high in purines so it is wise to avoid the gravies too. All these foods (except the mentioned vegetables) also provide good amount of cholesterol in the diet and are restricted if you have high cholesterol levels.
Some diet tips to lower your uric acid and cholesterol levels -

Drink plenty of fluids like boiled water, barley water and non-sweetened fruit or vegetable juices as this will help to flush off the excess uric acid present from your system. Water will also help to lower cholesterol if you are above your ideal body weight, drink water approximately 20-30 minutes before having your main meals. This will help to restrict your food intake in the subsequent meals.

For proteins choose low fat or fat free dairy products and pulses in moderation in your diet. Pulses also have some amount of purines but they can be consumed in moderation.

Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables (except the vegetables high in purines), this will not only provide many vital nutrients but also provide fiber in the diet which is an important factor to lower cholesterol levels.

If you have any doubt about a particular food that you feel will specifically increase your uric acid level, consult a health care professional.