Gout is an inflammatory disorder that occurs when uric acid levels are elevated in the body and deposit crystals in the joints and tissue. Gout is characterized by joint tenderness, pain, swelling and redness and may be triggered by stress, alcohol consumption, illness and medications such as diuretics, chemotherapy, aspirin and niacin. Risk factors include having a family history of gout, being a man between the ages of 30 to 50 or a postmenopausal woman, being obese or having an untreated medical condition such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia or renal insufficiency. Following a low-purine diet will help decrease the amount of uric acid in the blood. Purines are organic compounds that help to form deoxyribonucleic and ribonucleic acids, regulators of gene expression. Altering lifestyle factors, such as diet, will help reduce the amount of uric acid in the blood and the number of gout-related flareups.
Protein
Eggs, nuts and peanut butter are low-purine foods that provide protein in the diet. Gout sufferers should limit meat, poultry and shellfish to 4 to 6 oz. per day, and beans, peas and lentils to 1 cup per day when adhering to a low-purine diet. Those with gout should avoid foods such as anchovies, sardines, bacon, organ meats, wild game, herring, cod, tuna, trout, haddock and any fatty meats due to their high purine content.
Carbohydrates
Bread, pasta, rice, popcorn, sweets, gelatin, sugar and cakes are starchy foods that are allowed in a low-purine diet. People with gout should limit uncooked oatmeal and wheat germ to no more than 2/3 cup and ¼ cup per day, respectively. Low-fat dairy products and any fruits are acceptable to consume to decrease uric acid levels in the body. In the vegetable group, asparagus, cauliflower, spinach, peas and mushrooms should be limited to ½ cup per day. All other vegetables, such as peas, potatoes, broccoli or corn, are considered low in purines.
Other
Condiments such as herbs, spices, relishes, oils and vinegar are allowed in a low purine diet, as are beverages such as water, juice, tea, coffee, hot cocoa and carbonated beverages. Alcohol, such as wine, spirits and especially beer, is high in purines, and gout sufferers should avoid or strictly limit it in their diet.
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