Gout is a condition that affects a large number of people. Maybe you are one among them who have experienced gout in the near past. Do you remember seeing a painful red swelling in any of your joints, most probably your big toe? This is the most common symptom of gout. You may be wondering whether gout is a serious condition or not. Well, the answer to that question is no. It’s not at all a matter of worry except in some conditions.
Most of the time symptoms of gout get cured on their own without any medication or treatment. However, there are some situations where it may get worse and lead to even permanent joint damage. The fact is that it is possible to manage and treat gout effectively by paying attention to food intake and exercise. The purpose of this article is to offer comprehensive insights into the types of food one should avoid if experiencing any symptoms of this condition.
Purines
Naturally occurring purines can be found in a variety of meals. Uric acid is created when purines degrade, and this can lead to flare-ups of gout. As a result, it’s crucial to restrict your intake of foods rich in purines. These consist of:
- Animal organs (liver, kidneys, etc.)
- Red Meat (beef, lamb, pork)
- Seafood (anchovies, sardines, herring, mussels, scallops) (anchovies, sardines, herring, mussels, scallops)
- some vegetables (asparagus, cauliflower, spinach, mushrooms)
While it is not necessary to completely avoid these foods, it is advised to limit your intake and, whenever feasible, choose lower-purine substitutes.
Fructose
Numerous processed meals and sweetened drinks contain sugar-type fructose. According to studies, eating a lot of sugar can raise uric acid levels, which can trigger gout attacks. As a result, it’s crucial to restrict your consumption of foods high in fructose, such as:
- Sugar-sweetened beverages (soda, fruit juice, sports drinks)
- Processed snacks and desserts (candy, cookies, cakes)
- High-fructose corn syrup (found in many processed foods)
To satiate your sweet tooth, choose water, unsweetened tea or coffee, and whole fruits.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol has been associated with a higher chance of gout flare-ups. This is due to the fact that alcohol can boost the body’s creation of uric acid and hinder its removal from the body. Due to its high purine concentration, beer in particular has been linked to gout. Therefore, it is best to consume alcohol in moderation or not at all, particularly lager and other high-purine drinks like red wine.
