Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs due to high levels of uric acid in your body. When your body breaks down food, it also breaks down a substance present in foods called purine. During this process, it creates a waste product called uric acid. The body normally eliminates uric acid as urine, but in some cases, uric acid levels rise. These increased levels of uric acid then form painful uric acid crystals in your joints causing gout. Following a diet low in purines will reduce the production of uric acid and reduce attacks of gout.
Proteins
Proteins that contain low amounts of purines include meats such as poultry, fish, pork, beef and lamb. Other protein sources that are lower in purines are peanut butter, nuts, dried peas and beans. Avoid higher purine choices such as organ meats, game meats and seafood -- including mussels, scallops, herring and mackerel. However, limit your intake of dried peas and beans and keep meat servings to 3 ounces per meal.
Dairy
When eating dairy products, choose varieties that are skim or low-fat; avoid whole milk products. Drink milk and eat yogurt and cheese. Dairy products might actually lower your risk of gout so try to consume an adequate intake of 16 to 24 oz. each day.
Grains
Limit your intake of whole-grain breads and cereals. Breads, cereals, rice and pasta that do not contain whole grains are better purine choices. In addition, avoid high-fat bread varieties, such as biscuits and muffins.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and fruit juices are fine to eat and so are most vegetables. A few to limited include avocados, mushrooms, spinach, asparagus and cauliflower. Eat limited foods in small amounts to make sure they don't trigger an attack of gout.
Beverages
Coffee, cocoa, tea and carbonated beverages are all fine to consume on a low purine diet. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush uric acid out of your body and incorporate water into your fluid intake. In addition, do not consume any alcoholic beverages, especially beer, which is high in purines. Alcohol can increase your uric acid level and obstruct the ability of your body to eliminate purines. In some cases, you may be able to consume small quantities of alcohol, but consult your doctor prior to doing this.
Miscellaneous Foods
When choosing to consume desserts, skip desserts that are high in fat and eat low-fat versions instead. Angel food cake and low-fat frozen yogurt are low-fat dessert options to consider. In addition, consume butter, oil and other fats in limited quantities.
