Diet to Help Cure Gout

When too much uric acid accumulates in the joints, the ensuing pain and swelling is called gout, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the toes, ankles, hands and wrists. Although gout is typically treated with medication, a low purine diet also helps cure gout. Avoiding certain meats, vegetables, and beverages can significantly reduce gout symptoms.

Avoid Organ Meats

Avoid eating organ meats. According to the University of Iowa, organ meats are high in purines. Purines creates uric acid when it breaks down, contributing to gout. Eliminate the intake of organ meats, such as liver, brains, sweetbreads and kidneys, to reduce pain and swelling caused by gout.

Avoid Fish and Seafood

Avoid or eliminate anchovies, herring and mackerel. According to Dr. April Chang-Miller of the Mayo Clinic, these meats are also high in purines. Other types of fish and seafood, including salmon and albacore tuna, should also be avoided. Although their purine levels are not as high as anchovies, herring, or mackerel, they still contains a high amount of purines.

Avoid Certain Vegetables

Avoid or eliminate the intake of asparagus, cauliflower and mushrooms. These vegetables contain the highest amount of purines. Other vegetables are safe to eat, however.

Avoid Alcohol and Drink Water

Avoid alcohol and increase water intake. Alcohol is high in purines and prevents the body from excreting uric acid, which makes gout worse. Drinking water has the opposite effect. When sipped on a regular basis, regular water intake can help the body excrete more uric acid, decreasing gout pain and swelling. Aim to drink 10 to 12 glasses per day to help the body excrete more acid.

Do Not Eat More Than 100 Grams of Purine

Do not eat more than 100 grams of food containing purine per day. Decrease intake of all meats, including seafood and poultry. Avoid eating foods high in protein, since they also contain a high amount of purines. High fat foods also worsen gout, so avoid eating fatty meats.