U
Uric Acid Low
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Whiskey

Alcohol — purine content 1mg per 100g

Medium Purine
1
mg/100g

Yes, in moderation (1 drink per day max).

Why this rating: Distilled spirits carry almost no purine at all, so the Medium rating reflects the alcohol itself rather than purine content. Alcohol raises uric acid by reducing renal excretion and by accelerating purine breakdown.

Diet Advice

Whiskey has almost no purine — about 1mg per 100g — yet it still raises uric acid. Alcohol is metabolised to lactate, which competes with urate for the same excretion pathway in the kidney, so spirits raise gout risk through that mechanism rather than through purine. Beer carries both problems: alcohol plus purine.

Recommended Preparation

If you drink, keep it occasional and dilute with water. Avoid sugary mixers — high-fructose syrup raises uric acid directly.

Low Purine Alternatives

More Foods in This Category

Data source: FitzGerald JD, 2020 ACR Guideline for the Management of Gout; Li R, Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2018 (dietary factors meta-analysis). Purine value: 1mg per 100g of Whiskey (Medium purine, yellow zone).

See the full purine food classification table for all 142 foods, or read the low purine diet guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Whiskey high in purines?
Whiskey contains 1mg of purines per 100g, placing it in the medium-purine category (50-150mg/100g). It can be consumed in moderation during remission but should be limited during flare-ups.
Can I eat Whiskey during a gout flare?
It is best to avoid Whiskey during a gout flare. While it can be enjoyed in moderation during remission, even medium-purine foods can prolong or worsen an active attack. Stick strictly to low-purine foods until symptoms subside.
What are the best low-purine alternatives to Whiskey?
Great low-purine alternatives to Whiskey include: Water, Green Tea. These options provide similar nutritional benefits with significantly lower purine content, making them safer choices for regular consumption.