Cashew nuts and gout
Verdict: Cashew nuts is low in purines — you can eat it regularly as part of a gout-friendly diet.
Cashew nuts are a nutritious nut option that contains 22.9 mg of purines per 100 grams, placing them in the low purine category. This means cashews are generally safe to include in a gout-conscious diet, both during maintenance periods and outside of acute flares. A sensible portion is around 23 grams (a small handful or roughly 23 nuts), which delivers only about 5 mg of purines—well within safe daily limits. Unlike high-purine foods that can trigger flares, cashews won't significantly burden your uric acid load. However, they are calorie-dense and high in fat, so moderation remains wise for overall health. Pairing cashews with plenty of water supports kidney function and helps maintain stable uric acid levels. If you're managing gout long-term, cashews can be a satisfying snack or cooking ingredient without the worry that accompanies purine-heavy choices.
During a flare vs daily maintenance
🔴 During a flare
Cashew nuts stays a reasonable choice, but reduce portions and prioritise hydration (2 L/day).
🟢 Daily maintenance
Cashew nuts fits easily into a balanced gout-friendly diet, within the 400 mg purines per day limit.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I eat cashews during a gout flare?
Yes, cashews are safe during a flare because they have low purine content at 22.9 mg per 100 grams. You can enjoy a small portion without fear of worsening your symptoms, though keeping portions modest (around a handful) is sensible during acute pain.
How much can I eat without worrying about purines?
A typical serving of 23 grams of cashews contains only about 5 mg of purines, leaving you plenty of room within a 400 mg daily limit if you're in a maintenance phase. Even eating 100 grams daily would contribute just 22.9 mg—a small fraction of your total purine intake.
Are roasted or salted cashews different from raw ones?
The purine content remains essentially the same whether cashews are raw, roasted, or salted, as processing doesn't significantly alter purines. Watch out for very salty varieties if you have other health concerns, but from a gout perspective, all preparations are equally safe.
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⚕️ Educational information — does not replace medical advice. Data: USDA / NIH, Kaneko 2014 thresholds.