Gout is a form of arthritis, which occurs mainly in body parts such as feet or toes. It results from large amounts of uric acid in the bloodstream, which leaves needle-like crystal deposits in the joints causing swelling, redness, and pain.
Uric acid normally dissolves in the blood stream but there is a problem if:
- there is an increased intake of foods containing purines
- there is an increase in uric acid production
- the kidneys are not working properly to remove uric acid
The Gout Diet and Nutrition
As Gout is more common in overweight people, it is essential to keep a healthy body weight. Extra fluid helps in flushing out uric acid crystals, but alcohol is not allowed. Avoid foods which are high in purines and eat low purine foods moderately.
High Purine Foods Should be Avoided
Beer, anchovies, game meats, gravies, yeast, scallops, sardines, herring and mackerel are high in purines.
Medium Purine Foods to be Eaten Moderately
Poultry, meat soups and broth, mushrooms, fresh and saltwater fish, shellfish, cauliflower, spinach, legumes, bran, cereals and oatmeal have a medium amount of purines.
Low Purine Foods Have no Restriction
Nuts and peanut butter. Vegetables not high in purines, soups such as cream style or vegetable without meat extract, coffee, tea, fruit juices, soft drinks, gelatin and sugar.
Foods That May Help
Some chemicals contained in dark berries can help in reducing inflammation and lowers uric acid. Oily fish like salmon, or fatty acids in flax seed or nuts can reduce inflammation too.
People who suffer from gout can take a balanced diet, which is high in complex carbohydrates, low in protein and low in fat.
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