Gout is a disorder caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. When uric acid is too high, it forms crystals that accumulate in joints, causing inflammation, swelling, tenderness and severe pain. Uric acid is a byproduct of digestion. When foods containing compounds called purines are consumed, the body metabolizes the purines to produce uric acid, which the kidneys excrete. Some people produce too much uric acid and others are unable to excrete enough of the compound. Both situations may result in gout, which is often a chronic condition. Minimizing consumption of purine-rich foods may help reduce the number and severity of gout attacks. Consult a doctor to determine an appropriate dietary regimen for your situation.
Oily Fish and Seafood
Certain types of fish and seafood are rich in purines. Examples include herring, anchovies, mackerel, mussels and salmon. You may be particularly sensitive to one type of food, notes MayoClinic.com, and recommends you identify and avoid foods that cause repeated attacks of gout.
Organ Meats and Game
Organ meats are unusually high in purines and may cause elevated levels of uric acid in gout patients. Beef liver, kidney and brains are among the highest in purines. Sweetbreads, which may be either beef thymus or pancreas, are also purine-rich. Game meats such as venison or buffalo also tend to be high in purines and are not good choices if you have gout.
Yeast
Foods containing yeast are also rich in purines. Beer is especially likely to produce high levels of uric acid because it contains brewer's yeast that remains from the brewing process. Other foods that may contain yeast include some malt beverages, unfiltered cider and the skins of some fruits, such as grapes and plums.
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