Gout is a form of arthritis that causes severe bouts of pain, redness and tenderness in the joints, most commonly in the big toe. Gout occurs due to a buildup of uric acid in the synovial fluids around the joints. This uric acid forms into sharp crystals, causing pain. Foods high in purines can contribute to excess uric acid in the blood. Physicians often instruct patients with gout to follow a low-purine diet.
Purine
Purines are a natural substance found in some foods. When you digest purines, it produces uric acid as a waste product. Many foods contain purines. Knowing which foods to avoid, which foods to limit and which foods to enjoy freely can help avoid painful gout flare-ups.
Purine Diet
The purpose of a low-purine or gout diet is to control the production of uric acid and to encourage the elimination of excess uric acid in the blood. A low-purine diet is not a treatment for gout but may help control attacks.
Purine Foods
If you have gout it is important to avoid foods high in purines. High-purine foods include anchovies, fish eggs, herring, mackerel, sardines, game meats--such as goose, duck and partridge--and organ meats--such as kidney, liver, heart and brains. Foods such as broth, bouillon and consomme, gravy and brewer's yeast are also high in purines. You should consume foods that have a medium purine level in moderation. These foods include spinach, mushrooms, green peas, oats and oatmeal, dried beans, and red meats that are not already on the high-purine foods list.
Low-Purine Foods
You are able to enjoy low-purine foods freely. Eating nuts and peanut butter, low-fat and fat-free cheeses and ice cream, pudding and milk should not affect uric acid levels. You may also eat cream-style soups, fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, cake, cookies, fats, oils and sugar, syrup, and other sweets in small amounts.
Fluids
Certain liquids also contain purines and can affect gout levels. If you have gout, you should avoid beer as it contains high levels of purine. You should only consume liquor infrequently. Wine does not affect uric acid levels and you are free to enjoy it at your discretion.
