Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in your joints. Gout occurs more often in men than women and the body part it most frequently affects is the big toe. It is painful and causes swelling and redness in the affected area. Purines, which are found in many common foods, are broken down into uric acid. If your body is unable to get rid of the excess uric acid, you may suffer a gout attack, so following a low-purine diet can reduce the frequency of gout.
Proteins
Animal protein sources contain purines and should be eaten in moderation. High-purine animal-based foods include, organ meats, mackerel, herring, sardines and anchovies. Other animal protein sources such as veal, fish, eggs and lean cuts of poultry and beef are acceptable on the diet, but should be limited to 4 to 6 oz. per day, says MayoClinic.com. Protein-rich plant sources like beans, peas, and legumes can be included in your diet to ensure you have adequate protein intake.
Dairy Products
Low-fat and fat-free dairy products are safe to include in a low-purine diet and can aid the removal of purines from your body. Choose skim or low-fat milk, low-fat yogurt, and reduced-fat cheeses to replace full-fat dairy products. MayoClinic.com recommends consuming 16 to 24 oz. or 2 to 3 cups of low-fat dairy products per day.
Low-Fat Diet
A low-fat diet will help reduce the amount of uric acid that stays in your body and also help you lose weight, which can prevent gout attacks. Avoid fried foods and frying as a cooking method. Limit the amount of butter and margarine used on your food or with cooking. Choose fat-free sour cream and cream cheese, reduced-fat breads and grains, and lean meats.
Carbohydrates
Eat a variety of complex carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for additional nutrients and fiber. Whole wheat breads, pastas, cereals and brown rice are sources of whole grains. Most fruits and vegetables do not contain purines and should be steamed or baked instead of cooked with a high-fat cream sauce or butter.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are generally safe and do not need to be limited, but vegetables such as beans, peas, asparagus, lentils, mushrooms, and spinach contain purine. Limit your intake of these vegetables to a 1/2-cup serving no more than twice per week to stay within the purine diet restrictions. Vegetables prepared in cream sauces or au gratin still will be high in fat and should be avoided. Steam or bake your vegetables and add seasonings to give them flavor. All fruits and fruit juice are low in purines and do not need to be avoided, except for avocados which are high in fat.
Alcohol
Alcohol, especially beer, reduces the rate of uric acid's removal from the body and should be limited. If you are having a gout flare up, avoid all alcohol, but when you're not having an attack, drinking one or two 5-oz. servings a day of wine is not likely to increase your risk, says MayoClinic.com.
Fluids
Adequate hydration is needed to dilute uric acid and help remove it from the body. It is recommended that you drink a minimum of 2 liters or 8 cups per day. Drink fluids at every meal and through out the day. Water contains no extra calories, fats or sugars and is the best choice for hydration.
