Diet Plan for Gout
Gout is a painful arthritic condition that affects the joints, usually the big toe. It is caused by the body's inability to process uric acid, a byproduct of protein metabolism. For most people, uric acid passes from the body painlessly but in some people, it forms crystals in the blood that cause sudden swelling and intense pain in the joints. Gout is more common in men and seems to be diet related. Moderate lifestyle changes can prevent or reduce the severity of future attacks.
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Protein Sources
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Gout's association with "the good life" may be connected to the fact that meat, shellfish and alcohol seem to increase the risk of an attack. According to Current Opinion in Rheumatology and The New England Journal of Medicine, there is an "increased risk of gout among those who consumed the highest quintile of meat, seafood and alcohol."
Replace meat and seafood protein with leaner chicken and turkey. Tofu, tempeh and eggs are good alternative protein choices.
Purines
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Purines have been discussed as a source of uric acid, but the above journals also note that "moderate intake of purine-rich vegetables or protein is not associated with an increased risk of gout." Because of the nutritional benefits of dark green, leafy vegetables and the dietary benefits of low fat foods, these foods should be included in a healthy diet.
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Low Fat Dairy
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Low fat dairy products reduce urate levels in the blood and they are a valuable protein source for a gout reducing diet. Milk provides calcium and vitamin D, while yogurt, cottage cheese and kefir provide beneficial intestinal bacteria that aid in digestion.
Fluids
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As with any sensible diet plan, water is the beverage of choice. Water helps to flush your system of uric acid. Herbal and green teas provide antioxidant benefits that benefit overall health. Coffee lovers rejoice: the medical journal Rheumatology reports that "higher intakes of coffee...are associated with lower risk" of gout. Avoid hard liquor and beer as these have been shown to increase the risk of an episode. Wine does not seem to raise the risk of gout.
Foods That Prevent Gout
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Cherries have been proven to "decreased inflammatory indices." A study conducted by The American Society for Nutritional Sciences states "compounds in cherries may inhibit inflammatory pathways." The study asked participants to eat 2 servings of Bing sweet cherries every day. Their urate levels decreased significantly after their meal of cherries. Concentrated cherry extract is available in liquid and capsule forms.
Pain Managment and Prescription Medications
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Over-the-counter NSAIDs can reduce inflammation and pain. Elevating the afflicted joint and applying ice can also relieve pain and limit swelling.
Your doctor may prescribe Allopurinol (Zyloprim) to prevent future attacks. Allopurinol is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor that reduces the amount of uric acid in the blood.
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