The foods that cause gout should be eliminated or reduced from your diet. Gout is an ailment which results from an increase of uric acid in the blood, and its deposit on the joints (known as uric arthritis or arthritis) as well as in renal tissues. Gout only affects males, and its most characteristic symptom is a painful inflammation of the toe joint, though it can also affect other joints.
Avoid These Foods That Cause Gout
MEAT: All meat contains purine that transforms into uric acid within the body. Red meats (beef, lamb, pork) produce the most uric acid of any meat. It is well known that the more meat (including fish) eaten, the higher the level of uric acid in the blood and the greater the risk of gout.
SHELLFISH: Crustaceans and mollusks produce a great deal of uric acid in the body. They should be avoided in case of gout or elevated uric acid in the blood.
FATTY FISH: All fish produce uric acid, but lean fish produce less than fatty fish. Sardines, anchovies, and herring are the richest in uric-acid-producing purine, which makes them one of the top foods that cause gout.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES: Alcohol blocks the elimination of uric acid, which causes its blood level to rise, leading to gout. All alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine, are particularly detrimental where there is a tendency to elevate blood uric acid levels.
STIMULANT BEVERAGES: Caffeine is among one of the foods that cause gout. Also, it belongs to the same chemical family as purine. It transforms into uric acid in the body. The contribution of coffee and tea to the formation of uric acid, while quantitatively lower than that of meats and legumes, is significant. They should be avoided in case of gout.
BREWER’S YEAST: Brewer’s yeast is derived by dehydrating millions of yeast cells, each of which has one or more nuclei that contain nucleic acids formed of purine. This purine is transformed into uric acid in the body, which, if not eliminated by the kidneys in a sufficient amount, results in gout. Although brewer’s yeast contains much less purine than meats, it should be avoided in case of gout.
LEGUMES: All legume seeds, including those classified as legumes, as well as vegetables, such as peas, contains purine that produces uric acid. Soy is one of the highest producers of uric acid. If the kidneys are functioning properly, this is no risk to health. But in cases of gout or elevated uric acid level, they should be avoided.
SPINACH: Spinach contains no purine, but it does contain oxalic acid, which can interfere with the elimination of uric acid through the urine. Also, spinach, chard, and rhubarb contain a great deal of oxalic acid. They should be avoided by those with a tendency to gout or high blood uric acid levels.
FRUCTOSE: When fructose is eaten in purified form as sugar in much higher proportions than other natural sugars, it causes metabolic disorders such as an increase in uric acid and triglyceride levels in the blood. This undesirable effect does not occur when fructose is eaten as a natural part of fruit or honey.
MUSHROOMS: Although they produce much less uric acid than meat or legumes, they should also be avoided in case of gout.
ASPARAGUS: Asparagus is one of the richest vegetables in purine, although much less than meat. However, this drawback to asparagus is offset by its diuretic effect, which encourages the elimination of uric acid, resulting in a much milder effect in case of gout than might be expected. Despite this, large quantities of this vegetable are not recommended in the presence of an elevated uric acid level.
Top Rated Uric Acid Monitors
Table could not be displayed.Frequently Asked Questions
Does diet cause gout?
Diet alone doesn’t cause gout, but it can trigger gout attacks in people already at risk due to genetics, excess weight, or other health conditions. High-purine foods (liver, organ meats, shellfish) can increase uric acid levels, leading to crystals that cause gout pain.
What foods should I avoid with gout?
Limit or avoid high-purine foods:
1. Organ meats: Liver, kidneys, sweetbreads
2. Red meat: Beef, lamb, pork (moderate okay)
3. Certain seafood: Shellfish, sardines, anchovies, mackerel
4. Alcohol: Beer and liquor (especially grain-based)
5. Fructose-laden drinks and foods: Sugary sodas, juices, candies
Are any foods good for gout?
Focus on low-purine foods:
1. Fruits and vegetables: Most are purine-low, offer vitamins, and promote hydration.
2. Whole grains: Rice, pasta, bread (except oats, slightly higher in purines)
3. Dairy products: Yogurt, skim milk, and low-fat cheeses may reduce gout risk.
4. Legumes and plant-based proteins: Beans, lentils, and tofu offer purine-free protein.
5. Nuts and seeds: Moderate amounts provide healthy fats and nutrients.
Does drinking water help with gout?
Staying hydrated is crucial! Water helps your body flush out uric acid and prevents crystal formation. Aim for 8-10 glasses daily.
Is coffee bad for gout?
Studies suggest moderate coffee intake (one to two cups) may protect against gout. However, if you experience increased symptoms after coffee, consider limiting it.
Can I still eat some high-purine foods?
Yes, moderation is key! Enjoy occasional servings of moderate-purine foods like chicken, fish, or turkey. Choose purine-rich vegetables less often (asparagus, spinach).
Is a “gout diet” different from a healthy diet?
A gout-friendly diet is mainly healthy, emphasizing fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean protein. It simply restricts some trigger foods that may raise uric acid.
Should I take supplements for gout?
Consult your doctor about supplements. Vitamin C may help lower uric acid but don’t exceed recommended doses without guidance.
When should I see a doctor about gout?
Seek medical attention for:
1. Sudden, severe joint pain
2. Redness, swelling, or warmth in a joint
3. Fever
4. Recurring gout attacks
5. Difficulty managing symptoms with diet or lifestyle changes
Can I prevent future gout attacks?
You may considerably lessen the likelihood of future gout attacks by controlling your weight, staying away from things that cause them, and eating healthily. Remember, consistent management is vital!
How to Prevent Gout: A Comprehensive Guide
Gout is a painful inflammatory condition that most often affects the big toe. It occurs when uric acid crystals build up in your joints, causing sudden and severe attacks. While gout can be debilitating, it’s also largely preventable with proper dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
This tutorial will lead you through the most important things you can do to prevent gout:
Dietary Strategies
Limit purine-rich foods:
High-purine foods: Organ meats (liver, kidneys), red meat, certain seafood (anchovies, sardines), shellfish, and some processed meats.
Moderate-purine foods: Poultry, some seafood (tuna, salmon), and legumes (beans, lentils).
Low-purine foods: Dairy products, eggs, most fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least 8-10 glasses. This helps flush uric acid out of your body.
2. Reduce sugary drinks: Avoid sugary sodas, fruit juices, and sweetened coffee drinks. They can increase uric acid levels and trigger gout attacks.
3. Coffee in moderation: Studies suggest moderate coffee consumption might be beneficial for gout prevention.
4. Cherries: Tart cherries and cherry juice may help reduce inflammation and uric acid levels, though consult your doctor before incorporating them into your diet.
Lifestyle Modifications
1. Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a major risk factor for gout. Losing weight, even a small amount, can significantly reduce uric acid levels.
2. Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week. This helps improve overall health and manage weight.
3. Alcohol moderation: Limit alcohol intake, especially beer and hard liquor, which can trigger gout attacks.
4. Stress management: Chronic stress can exacerbate gout symptoms. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
5. Medications: If you have underlying medical conditions that contribute to gout, managing them with medication as prescribed by your doctor is crucial.
Preventative Healthcare
1. Stay informed: Learn about gout triggers and early warning signs of an attack.
2. Regular checkups: Schedule regular visits with your doctor to monitor uric acid levels and discuss any concerns you may have.
3. Medication adherence: If your doctor prescribes uric acid-lowering medication, take it as directed even during asymptomatic periods.
Additional Tips
1. Identify and avoid your personal gout triggers, which might differ from general recommendations.
2. Consider discussing dietary supplements like vitamin C with your doctor, as some studies suggest their potential benefit in gout prevention.
3. Prioritize sleep and a healthy sleep hygiene routine.
4. Join a support group or online community to connect with others managing gout and share experiences.
DISCLAIMER: This website and its content are for informational and educational purposes only. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any natural or herbal remedies, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
References
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia Of Foods and Their Healing Power.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia Of Foods and Their Healing Power. Trans. Annette Melgosa. Vol. 2. Chai Wan: Editorial Safeliz, 2005. 293. [Foods that cause gout]
Gout & Diet:
- Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-diet
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/gout-diet-curb-flares
- National Institutes of Health: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/gout/basics/symptoms-causes
Foods to Avoid:
- Cleveland Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/gout-diet/art-20048524
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/gout-diet-curb-flares
Foods to Eat:
- HealthXchange.sg: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/gout-diet-curb-flares
- Medical News Today: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/gout-diet-curb-flares
Water & Hydration:
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gout/symptoms-causes/syc-20372897
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32960634/
Coffee & Gout:
- Arthritis Foundation: https://www.verywellhealth.com/coffee-and-gout-5680272
- Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-gout-be-prevented-2021010821716
Moderation & Trigger Foods:
- Cleveland Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/gout-diet/art-20048524
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/gout-diet-curb-flares
Gout Diet vs. Healthy Diet:
- Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/getmedia/98553111-32e6-4bbd-8b09-53e5ed3be556/gout-factsheet.pdf
- American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating
Supplements:
- Mayo Clinic: https://store.mayoclinic.com/health/vitamins-supplements.html
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
When to See a Doctor:
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gout/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372903
- American College of Rheumatology: https://rheumatology.org/
Preventing Gout Attacks:
- Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis-health.com/blog/how-prevent-next-gout-attack
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/gout-diet-curb-flares
Additional Resources:
- Gout & Uric Acid Education Society: https://gouteducation.org/
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2021/0800/p209.html
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API