Gout is a type of bone disorders attributable to excessive uric acid in the bloodstream. Excess uric acid can lead to a formation of fluid that surrounds the joints, which can lead to uric acid crystals. The formation of these crystals causes the joints to swell, become inflamed, and cause excruciating pain. However, it is interesting to know that gout can be controlled. In addition to taking medications, nutritionary and changes in lifestyle can offer great help in preventing painful attacks. A gout-friendly diet involves a specific plan formulated to avoid painful gout attacks.
Foods to Avoid
There are also some foods that reduce gout effects and some which can worsen the condition. So, it is better that they are avoided or at least their consumption is reduced tremendously. Here are some of them.
Animal Protein
It has been observed the the level of uric acid in the body increases to a significant degree due to the intake of animal meats, especially organ meat. Consequently, it’s a good idea to avoid organ meat like liver, brain, kidney, meat extracts etc. Also, reducing the intake of poultry and other kinds of red meat can certainly help in the cutting down on the uric acid. If you cannot completely eliminate them from your diet, then take them in subsequent to boiling or steaming them. Avoid fried foods, as gout conditions can worsen with fried foods.
Alcohol and Alcoholic Wine
The consumption of excess alcohol has also been known to increase the occurrence and intensify the symptoms of gout. Hence, avoiding alcohol is the best option.
Seafood and Fish
Some fish and seafood are also known to reduce the discomfort caused by gout. Fish like mackerel, herring, sardines, tuna, etc. are ones to refrain from. Also, other seafood shrimp, lobster, oysters, scallops, calamari, caviar, etc. are best avoided.
Common Carbohydrates
For a person suffering from gout, the consumption of common carbohydrates, i.e., in the form of sugar and sweets should be reduced or completely shunned. So, stay away from excess sugar consumption.
Foods with High Fructose
As far as, avoid foods that incorporate high levels of fructose (sweetened corn syrup). These include sweetened juices and soft drinks.
Other Foods
Try to avoid the consumption of beans, peas, lentils, and mushrooms due to their high purine content.
What to Avoid Entirely?
A gout-friendly diet will help to manage uric acid levels in the body while enhancing overall health. According to the American College of Rheumatology, a diet that has an incredible amount of the following foods can lead to gout: seafood, red meat, sugary beverages and alcohol.
All of these foods have high purine contents. Having this knowledge, a gout diet should avoid or limit the following foods: organ meats, brain, sweetbreads, heart, kidney, liver, beef, pork, lamb, herring, anchovies, mackerel, mussels, smelt, sardines, scallops, tuna, yeast, beer, wine, and liquor, fruit juices and soda.
What to Limit?
Animal proteins are high in purines. Since the formation of purines can lead to heightened levels of uric acid, which in turn may result in gout, it is best to avoid or exclusively limit these foods in your diet.
Foods Moderately High in Purines
These foods are somewhat high in purines; eat in moderation: grouse, mutton, bacon, salmon, turkey, partridge, trout, goose, haddock and pheasant.
Therefore, pay much attention to what you eat or drink when you are experiencing gout. Above all consult your prior to going on any dietary plan.
