Swordfish and gout
Verdict: Swordfish is moderate purines — eat it in moderation, especially if your uric acid is high.
Swordfish is a firm, meaty fish that provides excellent protein and nutrients, but it does contain a moderate level of purines at 109.9 mg per 100 g. For people managing gout, this means swordfish isn't off-limits, but portion control matters. A typical serving of 150 g would deliver about 165 mg of purines—reasonable for daily maintenance if you keep your total daily intake under 400 mg. The cooking method makes a small difference: grilled swordfish has slightly more purines than roasted or boiled versions. If you're between flares, a modest portion a few times per week is generally manageable. The key is staying well hydrated, limiting other purine-rich foods on the same day, and monitoring how your body responds. Pairing swordfish with plenty of water and low-purine vegetables helps keep your overall diet balanced.
Purines by preparation
Cooking slightly changes the purine concentration per 100 g.
During a flare vs daily maintenance
🔴 During a flare
Swordfish stays a reasonable choice, but reduce portions and prioritise hydration (2 L/day).
🟢 Daily maintenance
Swordfish fits easily into a balanced gout-friendly diet, within the 400 mg purines per day limit.
Similar foods
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat swordfish if I have gout?
Yes, you can enjoy swordfish in moderation. At 109.9 mg of purines per 100 g, it's considered moderate—not high like organ meats or certain shellfish. A reasonable portion of 120–150 g a few times per week fits within a gout-friendly diet during stable periods.
Does the way I cook swordfish change its purine content?
Slightly, yes. Grilling adds about 116.2 mg per 100 g, while boiling reduces it to 106.3 mg and roasting to 97.8 mg. Boiling or roasting your swordfish lowers the purine level slightly compared to grilling, so choose these methods when you want to be extra cautious.
Should I avoid swordfish during a gout flare?
During an active flare, it's wise to skip high-purine foods and focus on very low-purine options while your symptoms settle. Once your flare has resolved and you're back to maintenance, you can reintroduce swordfish in small, measured portions alongside plenty of water.
Check any food in 2 seconds
Scan your plate with the Cha! AI assistant and track your purines daily. 1,000+ rated foods, 7-day free trial.
⚕️ Educational information — does not replace medical advice. Data: USDA / NIH, Kaneko 2014 thresholds.