Diet & Gout

High levels of purine, a substance found in many foods, cause gout. Purine breaks down into uric acid. Too much purine produces more uric acid than the kidneys can eliminate. The excess uric acid builds up in the blood and forms needle-like crystals that accumulate in the joints, causing the pain and inflammation of gout. Limiting dietary purines helps prevent gout.

What Is Gout

Gout, a form of arthritis, causes sudden, intense pain and inflammation in joints. Gout usually affects the big toe, but it may also occur in the knees, ankles, feet, hands or wrists. When left untreated, the pain typically persists for five to 10 days before subsiding gradually.

Risk Factors

Gout occurs most often in men older than 40 years but may also occur in women after menopause, according to the Mayo Clinic. A family history of gout raises the risk of developing the condition. A diet high in purine-containing foods is an important risk factor for gout because the kidneys are unable to properly eliminate the excess uric acid produced. High blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol levels are additional risk factors for gout.

Dietary Sources

Purines are primarily found in high-protein foods. Foods with the highest amounts of purines include red meat, organ meats (such as liver), poultry, beer, wild game, scallops and fish such as anchovies, herring, sardines and mackerel. Foods containing moderate amounts of purines include seafood such as fresh and saltwater fish, shellfish and eel, eggs and soups made with meat and meat-based broth. Cauliflower, asparagus, mushrooms, oatmeal, bran and whole-grain breads and cereals also contain purine and may contribute to gout.

Diet for Prevention

Eating foods containing complex carbohydrates and low levels of fat and protein help prevent gout recurrence. Breads and cereals made with white flour or refined grains, nuts, peanut butter, low-fat cheeses, fruit juices, gelatin, soft drinks and vegetables other than those with high or moderate levels of purines are recommended. Avoid foods high in purines and limit foods with moderate levels.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes related to diet may prevent gout. Limit daily protein intake to no more than 6 oz of lean meat, poultry or fish and drink plenty of fluids. Moderate protein intake reduces the amount of uric acid in the blood and fluids help dilute and eliminate the uric acid in the blood and urine. Avoid alcohol, which prevents the body from eliminating uric acid and leads to buildup of uric acid crystals.

Alternative Remedies

Specific foods and beverages are associated with gout prevention. Coffee and dark-colored fruits may lower uric acid in the blood. Vitamin C supplements may also lower uric acid levels, but high doses of Vitamin C increase uric acid. Few clinical studies have been done confirming the effect of these foods, however. Consult a doctor before trying an alternative remedy.