Gout is a common and painful form of arthritis that causes swollen, red, hot and stiff joints when uric acid builds up in the blood. Discuss topics including symptoms and medical or alternative treatments for gout.
There are many resources on the web that provide tips for managing Gout. Here you will find a few general guidelines including a list of foods by purine content.
1. A low purine diet is recommended to reduce Gout flares. Purines are compounds that are converted into uric acid as they are metabolized. High uric acid levels can cause Gout and gout flares.
2. Eat a low fat diet. Gout has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Eating a low fat diet can reduce this risk.
3. Drink lots of fluids. This will help your body rid itself of some of the uric acid in your system. Drinking water is great for Gout.
4. Limit or stop drinking alcohol. Any alcohol consumption should be discussed with your doctor in case your treatment plan mandates that you not consume alcohol. If you can drink small amounts, wine is probably the best option if you suffer from Gout and want to have a drink with dinner. Beer is high in purines.
5. Maintain a healthy weight.
Here is a list of foods by purine level. High purine foods increase uric acid levels so they should probably be avoided or at least consumed in small quantities.
High Purine Foods
Anchovies
Bouillon
Broth
Consommé
Gravy
Goose
Liver
Mussels
Roe
Sardines
Scallops
Shrimp
Yeast (supplement form, not breads)
Medium Purine Foods
Asparagus
Beans (legumes)
Cauliflower
Fish
Green Peas
Meat
Mushrooms
Oatmeal
Oats
Poultry
Shellfish
Soy
Spinach
Whole grain breads
Whole grain cereals
Low Purine Foods
Butter
Cheese
Cocoa
Corn
Cornbread
Cream soups
Eggs
Ice cream
Nuts
Pasta
Peanut butter
Pudding
Sugar
Tapioca
Vegetables
White bread
White Rice
Low Purine Beverages
Coffee
Fruit juice
Milk
Soda
Tea