Excessive levels of uric acid in the body can cause a type of arthritis called gout. Historically, doctors prescribed a restrictive diet for people with gout, but these days, prescription drugs are available to reduce uric acid levels. If you cannot take the medication or prefer not to, changing your diet to limit substances known as purines could help, according to licensed dietitian Joanne Larsen. A doctor or nutrition counselor can help you design an appropriate plan.
Significance of Purines
Purines are chemical compounds in some foods, and they also occur naturally in the body. The body breaks purines down into uric acid, after which the uric acid is filtered from the blood by the kidneys and excreted through urine. High levels of uric acid can cause crystals to develop and accumulate around a joint, a condition called gout. Gout most commonly affects the big toes, but it can affect other joints too. Uric acid crystals also can lodge in the kidneys and form kidney stones.
Foods to Avoid
The primary way to reduce uric acid in the diet is to restrict animal protein, according to MayoClinic.com. All animal protein contains purines, so it helps to eat 6 oz. or less of meat per day. Some protein sources are worse than others. Either avoid or rarely eat organ meats, beef, pork and lamb, as well as fatty fish such as herring, sardines, trout, tuna, anchovies and mackerel. Shrimp, scallops, mussels and lobster also are connected with an increased risk of gout, as are goose, duck and partridge. Be careful about hidden sources of purines, such as gravies, sauces and soups made from meat.
Foods to Include
Increase your protein intake by eating more plant-based protein, such as beans and legumes, advises MayoClinic.com. Legumes also contain purines, so eat only moderate amounts. You can also obtain protein from nuts and nut butter. Low-fat and fat-free dairy products are good choices and may actually decrease the risk of gout. Up to four eggs per week are acceptable in a diet for uric acid problems. Cherries are connected with lower levels of uric acid, and MayoClinic.com also recommends eating other dark-colored fruits, such as blueberries and purple grapes. Most vegetables are OK, but limit your intake of asparagus, cauliflower, green peas, mushrooms and spinach. Oats and wheat are acceptable in small amounts.
Beverages
Drink 8 to 16 cups of liquid each day to help your body eliminate uric acid. Drinking either regular or decaffeinated coffee is associated with lower uric acid levels. Restrict your alcohol intake, particularly during a gout attack, because alcohol interferes with uric acid elimination. Beer is especially likely to cause problems, but one or two 5-oz. servings of wine per day is unlikely to elevate your risk of a gout attack, notes MayoClinic.com.
Tips
If you are overweight, losing weight may reduce uric acid levels, according to Drugs.com. Losing weight gradually is best rather than going on a crash diet, because rapid weight loss can lead to gout attacks. Keep a list of good food choices in your kitchen, and carry a list with you to make your food decisions easier.
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