The Gout and Uric Acid Education Society says gout is one of the oldest known afflictions known to man. It is more common in men, although women may experience it after menopause. This painful condition of the joints -- especially of the feet and toes -- is manageable and often can be completely controlled. Relief from gout can be achieved by changing eating habits, taking the proper medications and exercising regularly.
The Condition
Gout can be a painful condition that affects the joints -- primarily the ankles, feet and toes. It is classified as a type of arthritis, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, or NIAMS. Often, individuals will experience episodes or attacks of gout that can last from days to over a week. Such attacks may even be months or years apart. Gout pain can be accompanied by swelling and redness around the joint, increase in body temperature and joint stiffness. Eating certain foods can put you at risk for developing gout, as can obesity, smoking, genetics and taking some medicines.
How Gout Occurs
Gout used to be known as a "rich person's disease," because it is associated with eating large amounts of red meats and alcohol, foods that in the past, only the wealthy could afford to consume regularly. These foods contain high amounts of purines, chemicals that form uric acid when broken down. Uric acid levels tend to build up in some people; in particular, uric acid concentrates in the joints. When it becomes concentrated in high enough quantities, it begins to mineralize and form into crystals in the joints: This is the source of pain people with gout often experience.
The Problem With Shrimp
Aside from red meats and alcohol, other foods are known to form uric acid in the blood. According to NIAMS, one of these foods is shellfish. Lobster, scallops clams and crab are known to contain high amounts of purines and can therefore lead to high uric acid concentrations in the blood. Shrimp also has a high purine content and eating it can lead to gout.
Foods
People who are prone to gout, such as diabetics or obese individuals, should avoid eating red meats and shellfish. Alcohol obstructs the kidneys' ability to rid the blood of uric acid so alcoholic beverages also should be avoided. Other foods which do not contain purines but are associated with gout formation are those containing high fructose or sucrose levels. Foods such as processed baked goods, ice cream, candy, prunes, dates, pears and other sweet fruits should be avoided as well.
