Top 10 Foods You Should Not Eat to Avoid Gout
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by high uric acid levels in the blood. It can form crystals that accumulate in the joints, causing inflammation, intense pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness in the affected joint.
One way to manage this condition is through dietary changes, such as reducing the intake of purine-rich foods and increasing the consumption of low-purine foods. In this article, we will explore foods you can avoid to prevent its attacks.
What Causes Gout?
Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, a substance found naturally in the body and in certain foods. Along with a good diet, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medications as a healthcare provider prescribes is important.
10 Foods You Should Avoid to Prevent Its Attacks
Dietary factors are essential in managing this condition; avoiding certain foods can help prevent or reduce gout attacks. Here are ten foods to avoid with this condition:
Red Meat and Organ Meat: Red meat and organ meats such as liver, kidneys, and heart are high in purines, increasing uric acid levels in the blood.
Processed Foods: These are foods high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to obesity, a risk factor for the disease.
Alcohol: Beer and hard liquor, particularly beer, contain high purines that can increase uric acid levels.
Yeasts: Yeasts in bread, beer, and other baked goods can increase uric acid levels and can trigger symptoms of gout.
Sugars and Fruits: Sugary drinks like soda and fruit juices can increase uric acid levels in the body, so they should be consumed in moderation.
Certain Fish and Seafood: Shellfish, anchovies, sardines, and herring are all high in purines and should be avoided.
Gravy: Gravy is often made from meat drippings and is high in purines.
Asparagus: Asparagus is high in purines. Limit the consumption of it if you have the condition.
Cauliflower: Cauliflower contains a moderate concentration of purines and can increase uric acid levels in the body.
Mushrooms: Some mushrooms are high in purines and should be avoided or limited.
It is recommended that individuals with this disease consult with their healthcare provider and a registered dietitian who will further discuss gout causes and create a personalized diet plan that meets their needs and preferences.
4 Foods You Should Eat to Avoid Gout
While it's important to know which foods to avoid to prevent this disease, it's equally important to know which foods can help reduce the risk of it. Here are some foods that you should add to your diet:
Cherries: Research has shown that eating cherries or drinking cherry juice can lower the risk of gout attacks. Cherries contain compounds that can reduce inflammation and help lower uric acid levels.
High-Vitamin C Foods: Foods rich in vitamin C can help reduce uric acid levels in the body. It's crucial to include foods like oranges, kiwis, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli in your diet for gout.
Coffee: Drinking coffee in moderation can help lower the risk of this disease. Research has shown that drinking coffee can lower uric acid levels in the body and can manage its symptoms.
Nuts, Beans, and Legumes: Foods like nuts, beans, and legumes are high in fiber and low in purines, making them a great addition to a gout-friendly diet. They are also a good source of protein, which is essential for overall health.
What is the Treatment for Gout?
The treatment may involve medication to manage pain, inflammation, and lifestyle changes such as dietary modifications and weight loss. Some common medications used to treat gout include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, corticosteroids, and urate-lowering therapy.
This condition can cause intense joint pain and inflammation, particularly in the feet and toes. Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts that are specifically designed to support and cushion the foot can be helpful for people with gout-related foot pain.
If you need this device, it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider. Medicare may cover custom orthotics for individuals with this disease if deemed medically necessary.
Home remedies for gout may help manage its symptoms. However, it is important to note that these remedies are not a substitute for medical treatment and consultation with a healthcare provider. Here are some home remedies that may help manage the symptoms:
Applying ice to the affected joint
Resting the joint
Elevating the affected limb
Taking turmeric to reduce gout symptoms
Drinking plenty of water to flush out excess uric acid.
Gout Treatments and Prevention with Foot and Ankle Centers
This condition can affect any joint in the body, including the feet. If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, which could be gout in the feet because of pain and swelling in the toes, ankles, and other joints, you should consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.
At Foot and Ankle Centers, we offer comprehensive treatment options for patients suffering from gout. Our team of experienced podiatrists can help you manage your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to improve your overall health and well-being.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our treatment options.