February 2007

Question: 

Dear Janice & Liz,

Hello! I am a MD from Romania and I have a patient, male, 42 years
with metabolic syndrome. He asked me if he may eat seafood (not fish,
because I already told him that he can eat fish). My question is how
much uric acid is in the seafood and which species are best / less
dangerous for him? I hope he may eat seafood, because he loves it.

Thank you very much,
Mela

Answer: 

Dear Dr. Mela: As you know, metabolic syndrome (also called insulin
resistance syndrome or syndrome X) is characterized by insulin
resistance, abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, and lipid
abnormalities including elevated triglycerides and low levels of HDL
(good) cholesterol.  Metabolic syndrome is a significant risk factor
for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. In addition to weight loss,
primary dietary recommendations include decreasing intake of saturated
fat and sodium. Seafood is very low in saturated fat and generally low
in sodium and is highly recommended for heart health.

Elevated uric acid levels are not uncommon with metabolic syndrome.
Uric acid is formed when compounds called purines in food are broken
down. Uric acid is normally cleared from the blood by the kidneys but
can build up in people with metabolic syndrome (and gout). Though
questions remain regarding the necessity of following a low-purine
diet, some doctors still recommend it for their patients with metabolic
syndrome.  High-purine foods – often considered off limits – include
liver, kidney, anchovies, sardines, herring, mussels, bacon, codfish,
scallops, trout, haddock, veal, venison, turkey, alcoholic beverages
(especially beer), yeast, and gravy. Since drinking a lot of water can
help clear the uric acid, patients are offered this advice as well.
Good luck.  We certainly hope you find our tips helpful.

Ask a dietition

  • I am finally convinced that the cholesterol found in shrimp isn’t going to raise my blood cholesterol and may actually decrease my risk of heart disease.  Are there any other nutrients found in shrimp that can make me healthier?
    Happy Holidays!
    Ralph C.

    FIND OUT THE ANSWER

We already know that shrimp is low in fat and calories. But if you are concerned about cholesterol, there is good news. You do not have to give up shrimp! Research shows and dietitians concur that the high percentage of "good fats" in shrimp reduces the impact of cholesterol. So enjoy shrimp as part of a balanced - and delicious - diet.