Gout and Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a staple in many diets—fresh in salads, cooked in sauces, or blended into soups. But if you’re managing gout, you might have come across claims that tomatoes can trigger flare-ups. So, what’s the truth?

Tomatoes and Uric Acid: Clearing Up the Confusion

Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can form sharp crystals in joints and cause inflammation. Most often, uric acid levels rise due to the breakdown of purines, a compound found in many foods.

Tomatoes are very low in purines, which means they don’t directly contribute to increased uric acid production. However, some people report experiencing gout symptoms after eating tomatoes, leading researchers to explore whether tomatoes might influence uric acid in other ways.

What Does the Research Say?

Some observational studies have found a mild link between tomato consumption and slightly higher uric acid levels in the blood. However, the increase is small, and the evidence is not strong enough to label tomatoes as a gout trigger across the board.

In most cases, tomatoes are not a problem for people with gout. But individual reactions can vary, and it’s possible that a small number of people may be sensitive to tomatoes or nightshade vegetables more generally.

Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in nutrients that support overall health and may even help with inflammation:

Vitamin C: Helps reduce uric acid levels when consumed regularly.
Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant that may support joint and cardiovascular health.
High water content: Supports hydration and uric acid excretion.

Given these benefits, tomatoes can be a healthy part of most gout-friendly diets.

When to Be Cautious

If you suspect tomatoes may be a personal trigger, it can help to:

Keep a food diary to track symptoms
Limit or temporarily remove tomatoes and monitor changes
Reintroduce them gradually and in small amounts

Tomatoes are found in many sauces, condiments, and processed foods, so reading labels can also be useful.

Including Tomatoes Safely

For most people with gout, tomatoes can be enjoyed in moderation:

Choose fresh or cooked tomatoes without added salt or sugar
Avoid tomato-heavy processed foods, which may contain hidden ingredients
Pair with low-purine foods to balance meals

Supporting Uric Acid Balance with Uricah

If you’re managing your diet to help control gout, Uricah offers a natural way to support healthy uric acid metabolism. With 14 well-researched ingredients—including herbs known for kidney and joint support—Uricah is designed to complement smart food choices like tomatoes and promote everyday comfort and balance.