What Foods Are Good for Gout?

Gout is a particularly painful form of arthritis caused by too much uric acid in the blood. It affects 10 percent of Americans. Diet and lifestyle changes can help reduce the effects of gout by potentially preventing attacks and decreasing their intensity.

Importance

Chemical compounds known as purines break down to uric acid in the human bloodstream, which can build up in joints and cause gout attacks. Reducing purine intake can be an effective way to reduce gout.

Vegetables and Grains

Green vegetables, fruits and fruit juices, non-whole grain breads and peanuts and nut butters all have low purine densities and are safe to eat in moderation.

Dairy

Low-fat or non-fat milk and yogurt may in fact lower your risk of suffering a gout attack, according to health.com.

Meats

Many meats have high purine content and are unsuitable. Poultry white meat and many fish are acceptable meats for a gout sufferer to eat on a constricted basis. Fatty fish, such as sardines, anchovies mackerel and scallops are high in purines and should be avoided.

Lifestyle

In addition to modifying your diet, managing your weight and engaging in a moderate exercise routine can also help reduce gout attacks.

Considerations

While reducing purine intake may lower your chances for suffering a gout attack, diet is not the only factor in uric acid accumulation. Overproduction of uric acid in the body and decreased kidney absorption are other key factors.