Is tequila good or bad for gout?
Verdict: Tequila is low in purines, but alcohol slows the kidneys' removal of uric acid — limit it, and avoid it during a gout flare.
17 mg of purines for 330 ml, that's 4 % of a 400 mg daily guide.
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Tequila is a spirit distilled from the agave plant and contains very low purine levels at 5.3 mg per 100 g, making it one of the safer alcoholic choices for people managing gout. However, alcohol itself—regardless of purine content—can trigger gout attacks by increasing uric acid production and reducing its excretion through the kidneys. If you enjoy tequila, moderation is key: a single 1.5 oz serving occasionally is generally considered acceptable during maintenance periods when you're not experiencing a flare. During an active gout attack, it's best to avoid all alcohol entirely. The most important step is staying well-hydrated with water, which helps your body process uric acid more efficiently. Remember that daily purine intake should ideally stay below 400 mg, and while tequila's purine content is low, the real concern is alcohol's metabolic effect on gout rather than the purine in the drink itself.
During a flare vs daily maintenance
🔴 During a flare
Avoid it: during a flare, alcohol slows uric acid removal and can prolong or worsen the attack. Stick to water (2 L/day).
🟢 Daily maintenance
Occasionally and in small amounts, never as an everyday drink. Ask your doctor what limit suits you.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tequila if I have gout?
Tequila has very low purines (5.3 mg per 100 g), but alcohol in any form can trigger gout attacks by raising uric acid levels. It's best avoided during flares and limited to occasional, small servings (1.5 oz) during stable periods, always with plenty of water.
Is tequila better or worse than beer or wine for gout?
Tequila has lower purine content than beer, which is relatively high in purines. However, all alcoholic drinks can provoke gout attacks through their metabolic effects, not just purine content. The safest approach is to minimize all alcohol when managing gout.
What should I do if I want to have a tequila drink?
If you choose to drink tequila, limit it to a single small serving, drink it slowly, and consume plenty of water before and after. Avoid sugary mixers, which may worsen gout. If you're in a flare or your uric acid levels are unstable, it's better to skip alcohol altogether.
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← See all foods⚕️ Educational information — does not replace medical advice. Data: USDA / NIH, Kaneko 2014 thresholds.