Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly the big toe, which causes inflammation and pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. One important cause of gout is eating a diet high in purines, a chemical that breaks down into uric acid when digested. Cutting back on high-purine foods can help reduce and prevent your symptoms.
Meats
Purines are a naturally occurring substance in many foods, but certain meats are particularly high in purines and are best avoided if you have gout. Organ meats are a particular problem so stay away from liver, kidneys and sweetbreads. Other high-purine meats and meat products include red meats like beef, pork and lamb. Bacon, veal, broth, bouillon, consomme and gravy are also high in purines. Game meats like goose, venison, duck and partridge can also be a problem.
Fish
Many fish are also high in purines, particularly fatty, cold-water fish. Stay away from anchovies, tuna, trout, haddock, codfish, mackerel, herring and sardines. Other seafood is also high in purines including mussels, scallops, fish roe, lobster and shrimp.
Other Foods
Yeast is high in purines. Certain plant foods also contain purines and are best limited, though the level of purines is lower than in meat and fish and they do not have to be completely eliminated from the diet. These include asparagus, spinach, beans, lentils, cauliflower, oatmeal, wheat, mushrooms and dried peas.
Beverages
Most beverages are not high in purines but there are a few that can aggravate gout for other reasons and are best limited, according to MayoClinic.com. Alcohol makes it harder for the body to get rid of uric acid, which can contribute to gout. Beer in particular has been linked to gout attacks. Some research indicates that sugary drinks like soda may cause uric acid levels to increase but there is debate about that. Diet sodas have not been linked to an increased risk of gout, according to UMMC. On a positive note, drinking eight or more glasses of water a day can help flush uric acid out of the body and reduce and prevent symptoms. Low-fat milk has also been linked to a reduced risk of gout.
