Does eating lentils with turgor increase uric acid? People often remove the foam that appears on the stain, claiming it contains uric acid. But is this really true? Let's find out.

Lentils are considered an essential part of an Indian meal; a meal without them is considered incomplete. Besides being delicious, they are also considered healthy. However, when we cook lentils, a foam forms on top.

You may have often heard people say that the foam that forms on top of lentils contains uric acid, which is why people remove it. But is this really true? The foam that forms when boiling lentils is primarily composed of protein, starch, and saponins. Health experts say that it is completely wrong to say that the foam on top of lentils contains uric acid. Uric acid is formed by the metabolism of purines in the body; it is not formed during cooking.

Myth vs Truth

Many people believe that the foam is full of uric acid or purines, and that if it's not removed, it will cause joint pain, kidney stones, or arthritis. This is incorrect. In fact, the foam on top of lentils is simply a mixture of protein, starch, and saponins. It's not related to uric acid at all. Many doctors and dietitians declare it completely safe.

These people should eat in limited quantity-

Although pulses contain purines, which are plant-based purines, studies suggest that vegetables and pulses do not increase uric acid levels as much as red meat, seafood, or organ meats. People with gout are also allowed to eat pulses, but consume them in moderation.

Is foam necessary in lentils or not?

Experts say that it's not necessary to remove the foam from lentils. It doesn't contain any toxins or uric acid. Even lentils cooked with the foam are perfectly safe and nutritious. Many people find the lentils cleaner and more flavorful after removing the foam; this is a personal preference, not a health requirement.

How to control uric acid?

If you have uric acid or gout, focus on these things more than removing foam: drink plenty of water (about 3-4 liters daily); reduce your intake of red meat, seafood, alcohol, and sweetened beverages; keep your weight under control; soak and cook lentils thoroughly; this makes digestion easier; increase your intake of fruits (cherries, strawberries), low-fat dairy, and vegetables.

PIC CREDIT-baawarchi_mumma/ pexels