Gout is a painful condition caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in your body's tissues. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this condition affects up to 6.1 million people a year. Although there is no known cure for gout, following a diet low in purine may help to decrease flare-ups.
Disease Process
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis, which is a result of the buildup of uric acid crystals formed in your body when purines are metabolized. Purines are found naturally in the human body as well as in other animal tissues and foods. Gout is a chronic condition. Time between flare-ups and severity of flare-ups differs with each person. Signs and symptoms of gout are nonspecific and could be a sign of a number of different conditions. Symptoms include redness and swelling of joints, accompanied by pain, often with lingering discomfort. The joints that are often affected include hands, wrists, feet, including toes, and ankles.
Occurence
Although anyone can develop gout, it is more prevalent in certain populations. Men are three to four times more likely than women to develop gout, and rates of development increase with age. If you are overweight or obese or have hypertension, you are also at increased risk. Obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight has been shown to decrease risk of developing gout. Diets high in red meat, seafood and alcohol also increase risk of gout development.
Nutrition Don'ts
The American Dietetic Association has identified several foods as high in purines. They should be limited or consumed in modest amounts, no more than 4 to 6 oz. a day: alcohol, including beer, wine and liquor; gravies; fatty fish such as anchovies, sardines, tuna, codfish, scallops, trout and haddock; bacon; organ meats such as liver; sweetbreads; wild game; goose; and yeast. Red meats such as beef, pork, and lamb should also be limited. Processed foods, including cured meats or brines, may also be high in purines.
Nutrition Dos
Make sure you consume adequate protein on a daily basis. Increasing consumption of nonanimal-based proteins from legumes and beans is recommended. You should also try to eat a diet that is high in whole grains. Whole grains are higher in protein and fiber than foods made with processed flours. Consuming adequate low-fat dairy on a daily basis has been shown to decrease risk of gout. Low-fat yogurt, low-fat cottage cheese, low-fat cheese and 1 percent milk are all low-fat sources of dairy. You should also make sure you are staying well hydrated. Water is the recommended source of fluid; you should aim for at least eight 8-oz. glasses each day.
Weight Control
Obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight has been shown to decrease risk of developing gout. Nutrition plays a vital role in weight control. Try to be physically active most days of the week and consume a diet high in fruits, vegetables and low in fats to help with weight management.
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