Purines: Everything You Need To Know

Many people know about the existence of purines because of its relationship with gout. Few people understand the true importance of these molecules and their role in the body. They are one of the compounds that make up the fundamental pieces of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).

Purines are a kind of nitrogenous base, which, as we just said, is a fundamental element needed to build DNA. That’s why you find them in your cells and the food you eat, such as in meat.

In addition, they have their own cycle of decomposition and elimination from the body. This process is important because when they decompose, they turn into uric acid. If the uric acid is not eliminated correctly, it can cause gout.

Among the chemicals classified as purines, there are two basic types: adenine and guanine. In this article we explain what purines are used for and why your body needs them.

What are purines?

As we mentioned, purines are a family of molecules. They are chemical compounds that make up your DNA and other molecules like ribonucleic acid (RNA). Within this family, there are two main groups: adenine and guanine.

Since they are part of your DNA, it makes sense that they occur naturally in your body. Your body even makes them. In addition, certain foods such as meat and fish are very rich in purines.

Purines participate in many cellular metabolic processes and also in the synthesis of proteins. There are many conditions that alter the normal cycle of these molecules. For example, when the process of removing them is affected, you can develop conditions related to uric acid, such as gout.

However, gout is not the only major disease associated with purines, although it is the most common. There are many conditions (link in Spanish) that affect their breakdown that are more serious than gout.

How are purines related to uric acid?

Purines leave uric acid behind when they break down in your tissues. The liver and small intestine normally break them down. The amount of uric acid produced depends on several factors.

In general, the most important factor is your diet. This is because the foods you eat are one of the main sources of purines. Almost all uric acid is excreted through the urine, although some is also excreted through the gut.

When you make a lot of uric acid, or if you can’t get it all out properly, it builds up in your body. When this happens, it deposits in your tissues as tophi. In general, it builds up in your joints, causing arthritis. High levels of uric acid can also cause kidney problems.

Gout is a form of arthritis that can be explained by purines. It mainly affects the joint of your big toe. It also causes intense pain and redness and swelling in the area.

Why are purines important to my diet?

As we mentioned, food is your main source of purines. This means that your diet is an important factor in the development and control of diseases caused by uric acid.

While ideally everyone should eat a healthy, balanced diet, it’s even more important for people prone to this condition to watch what they eat. Some foods rich in purines are:

• Meat in general, whether beef, pork, game or poultry.
• Shellfish, such as lobster or mussels.
• Liver, stomach or kidneys of all animals.
• Fish, such as smoked salmon or anchovies.

If you have problems metabolizing purines, do n’t eat these foods. In addition, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to increase the amount of uric acid you excrete. We also recommend that you maintain a healthy weight and avoid alcohol.

To remember

Despite all the recommendations we have given you in this article, you should always consult your doctor. It is important to point out that purines are necessary, but they can also be linked to various diseases.

Gout is the most well-known condition and the arthritis it causes is very painful. That is why it is important to pay attention so that you can detect it.