A patient suffering with gout shows raised levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a breakdown product of purines that are present in quite a number of food items that we eat. Apart from manifesting as painful arthritis (gout), the abnormality in uric acid metabolism can also lead to formation of kidney stones and blockage of the kidney-filtering tubules, leading to kidney failure.
In some people, laboratory investigations reveal raised uric acid levels in the blood (hyperuricemia) but they do not show any manifestations of gout. This state is termed as asymptomatic hyperuricemia.
May it be gout or asymptomatic hyperuricemia, dietetic modifications to reduce the formation of excessive uric acid is the key to effective management of the case. This article will shine light on the food items that are associated with uric-acid formation in the body.
Let's start with a good news... although most of the seafood is termed under prohibited section, shrimp, lobster, eel, and crab are considered relatively safe to consume for the patients suffering with gout.
But a bad news for you is Beer should be avoided completely by a patient suffering with gout. Beer not only increases your uric-acid level, but also makes it more difficult for your body to clear urate crystals from your system. It is always better the abstain from any kind of alcohol consumption.
Though all kinds of meat is not created equal when it comes to purine content, you must be choosy with your food selection. White meat is generally better than red but a moderate consumption of all meat is advised because you might be lack of vitamins if you stop eating meat at all.
Sugary drinks - beverages sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, such as non-diet sodas or "fruit" drinks also come with a label of NO with them. The artificial sweetening agents in the diet-sodas can lead to increase in uric acid concentration.
Among the vegetables - Asparagus, cauliflower, spinach, and mushrooms are higher in purines than other vegetables. But the good news is purines from vegetable source are easier for body to excrete out.
Having said this, there are many types of foods that may help you against gout. Low-fat dairy foods, complex carbohydrates, coffee, and fruits, especially citrus fruits are highly recommended for a gout patient. You should also be sure to get 12 to 16 cups of fluid daily, which does not necessarily have to be only water (although it shouldn't be beer!)-you can choose non-sweetened juice, tea, and coffee too. Any kind of fluid / food that keeps your blood and urine flowing is good for you.
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