There are more than 100 forms of arthritis, one of which is gout. Gout can cause chronic attacks if it is not well controlled, which includes eating a special diet. This may or may not be combined with steroid injections or medications. In some cases, the cause of gout is never determined. It is not caused by foods, but obesity and a diet high in purines can make symptoms worse. The first step is to talk with a physician before making any changes to diet, to avoid any complications.
Identification
Gout or gouty arthritis occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body. Levels can get high if the body produces too much uric acid or is unable to eliminate the excess, but high levels of uric acid, called hyperuricemia, does not always lead to gout, states MedlinePlus.
Gout develops when the excess uric acid in the blood crystallizes and forms kidney stones or settles in the joints, causing pain, inflammation and stiffness. The big toe is a common site for gout, although it can occur anywhere in the body. The initial attack may be severe but may not last long. If it is not treated, attacks can continue to get worse. In severe cases, gout can lead to permanent joint and kidney damage.
Considerations
Stress, alcohol, certain medications, underlying medical conditions and eating foods high in purines can all trigger gouty arthritis, warns the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Treatment is aimed at reducing inflammation and pain. This includes reducing calorie intake and getting regular exercise to help shed excess weight. The diet needs to be well balanced to avoid malnutrition and reduce intake of purines. In addition, it is important to drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day to help the system flush out uric acid.
Triggers
A diet that is helpful for reducing gout symptoms involves eating a variety of foods while being careful about consuming foods high in purines. Each case is different and there is not one diet plan that works for all patients. MayoClinic.com recommends limiting intake of organ meats, such as liver, as well as herring, anchovies and mackerel, red meat, beef, pork, lamb, fatty fish such as tuna, shrimp, lobster and scallops. Restrict these foods to no more than 4 to 6 oz. per day.
Avoid alcohol, especially beer, during an attack. Outside of attacks, limit alcohol to one or two 5-oz. glasses of wine per day. Limit sugar, as it can contribute to both gout and weight gain.
Prevention
Focus on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and get protein from plant-based sources, such as beans and legumes. MayoClinic.com suggests your daily diet should include 16 to 24 oz. of skim or low-fat milk and foods made with it, such as yogurt, as these foods may help reduce the risk of gout attacks. Choose healthy carbohydrates, such as whole-grain breads and cereals and steer clear of refined grains, such as white bread, baked goods, crackers and cookies.
Solution
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, obesity increases the risk of developing gout, so it is important to watch calorie intake. Avoid crash diets and fasting because they can trigger an attack of gouty arthritis. It is safer to aim to lose just 1 to 2 lbs. per week; unless your doctor advises you otherwise.
Because 1 lb. of weight is equal to 3,500 calories, this means that to lose 1 lb. per week, you need to reduce caloric intake by 500 calories per day. To lose 2 lbs. a week, you have to consume 1,000 fewer calories each day. The latter may drop calorie intake too low. A registered dietitian can help you design a safe weight-loss plan that will also help you manage gout.
