Gout is a painful kind of arthritis that is brought on by the collection of crystals of uric acid in the joints, particularly in the big toe. A good beginning is medication; however, your diet is also effective in the prevention of flare-ups and the reduction of pain.
Gout attacks take place when the levels of uric acid increase in the blood. The consumption of certain foods causes your body to produce Uric acid. It is an organic waste that is generated naturally.
There is a sudden attack of pain, swelling in the joints. It usually happens when some people’s bodies can’t remove the extra amount of uric acid.
How does Food affect Gout?
It is very necessary to consult a doctor if you see yourself struggling with severe pain or swelling in your joints, so that the doctor can give a proper food chart that you can use.
Some foods will trigger your uric acid level if not given importance. Some of the foods are high in purines, and when you digest them, they will produce uric acid. People who do not have gout are not much concerned about this since they automatically eliminate uric acid in their bodies.
But things are different with those who have gout, as they can’t remove uric acid on their own. This is why a diet in foods that increase uric acid levels will store it, which will increase the problem.
What Foods should you eat?
A healthy diet that contains vegetables, fruits, and grains is necessary to control gout. Water, plant-based proteins, legumes, grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products are the best sources of food to consume for gout.
Low-Fat Dairy Products
Low-fat dairy products like yogurt will help lower uric acid levels, which will reduce gout. Dairy products like milk contain amino acids, which will remove the uric acid.
Fruits and Vegetables
Potassium is found in high abundance in fruits and vegetables. And eating more fruit like cherries, berries, and oranges will reduce the risk of gout flares. Even vegetables are high in purines, which will decrease the risk of gout.
Grains
Grains like oatmeal, whole grain bread, and brown rice are the better choices you can make to lower purines and help regulate blood sugar, which is necessary for those who are gout patients.
Legumes and Plant-based Products
Lentils, black jeans, chickpeas, and tofu are perfect for gout as they are rich in fiber, antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation, and also support kidney health.
Water
In such times, staying hydrated is the best thing to do so that you can manage gout easily. When you remain hydrated, you will make the kidneys clear the uric acid, and this will reduce the chances of having crystals in the joints.
What Foods should you Avoid?
You must try to avoid foods that will trigger flare-ups and raise the level of uric acid.
Red Meat
Consuming large amounts of these foods, like beef, pork, and organ meat, will increase the uric acid level, which will higher the risk of a gout attack.
Seafood
Some high in purines, like anchovies, sardines, shellfish, mackerel, and herrings, will increase the chances of gout. So to avoid gout, you should avoid such foods.
Sugary Drinks and Sweets
You should not consume soda, energy beverages, and fruit juices that contain sugar combined. Since sugar will raise the levels of uric acid in the liver. Instead, make an effort to drink herbal tea, water, or lemon water.
Beer
Beer, liquor, and any heavy alcohol consumption will trigger gout, and it stops the ability of body to get rid of uric acid. Beers have a large number of purines, which will raise the uric acid levels.
Highly Processed Foods
Sodium is also a reason that affects gout, and processed foods are high in sodium and fats, which will increase inflammation in the kidneys. You are to avoid fast food, packaged foods, or anything containing a lot of sodium, fat, and sugary products.
Conclusion
It is much more comfortable if the food is on your side rather than against you. You can keep your joints healthy and minimize the number of flare-ups by consuming low-purine foods, keeping the body hydrated, and avoiding red meat, sweet drinks, and alcohol. Even simple changes can help a lot in the maintenance of gout.
