What should be the dietary treatment for gout?

Goutis a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the body and forms crystals in the joints, causing inflammation and pain. This is due to many nutritional factors, especially purines. This article, food for gout It aims to cover many things worth knowing about treatment.

What causes gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis. It occurs when high levels of uric acid cause crystals to form in the joints and soft tissues, causing inflammation, pain, and swelling.

The amount of uric acid in the body depends on:

The amount of uric acid your body produces and gets rid of

Your body may naturally produce more uric acid or have a hard time getting rid of it.

Certain medications (such as diuretics) and medical conditions (such as high blood pressure) can affect the amount of uric acid your body makes or eliminates (mostly in urine). It is important that you continue to take your medications. Talk to your doctor before stopping any medication.

The amount of purine you eat

Some foods and drinks contain compounds called purines. Purines are converted to uric acid in the body. Meat and seafood are rich in purines and can increase uric acid levels. Plant-based purines do not increase uric acid levels and are not a cause for concern.

Treatment methods for gout

Gout is treated with medications that lower the level of uric acid in the blood, as well as changes in diet and lifestyle. Gout usually occurs with the following conditions. Along with gout, it is important to control these conditions:

• being overweight or obese
• hypertension
• high blood cholesterol
• type 2 diabetes
• heart disease
• chronic kidney disease
• genitourinary (urinary and reproductive) diseases.

If you need help with a diet for any of these conditions, talk to a dietitian.

Diet therapy for gout

Eat a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats. A diet rich in unprocessed, plant-based foods may help reduce the risk of gout attacks and maintain optimal overall health. Use the following information to guide your food choices:

• Try to keep portions of meat and seafood small. Since many people often eat much larger portions, this can significantly reduce the amount of purines they consume.
• Fish is a healthy choice as it is rich in omega-3 fats and low in saturated fat. If you are consuming less than two servings of fish per week, discuss the use of fish oil supplements with your doctor, pharmacist, or dietitian.
• Avoid organ meats (liver, kidney, etc.) as they are high in purines.
• Choose more plant-based protein sources such as beans, lentils, tofu, unsalted nuts and seeds. Although some of these foods contain purines, they are not associated with an increase in uric acid or an increased risk of gout symptoms.
• Choose low-fat milk (skimmed, 1%, 2%) and dairy products. Examples include low fat yogurt (0%, 1%, 2%) or low fat cheese (less than 20%). These foods contain little or no purines and may help lower uric acid levels and the risk of gout attacks.
• Make vegetables an integral part of your diet. Try to eat at least four servings of vegetables every day. Also choose vegetables as a snack.
• Choose whole fruits instead of juice. Try to eat at least three servings of fruit every day.
• Avoid fruit drinks, branded coffees and teas, sugary foods and drinks that are high in sugar, and sugary desserts like pastries, donuts, cakes, and cookies.
• Limit your alcohol intake. Even one or two servings can increase the risk of a gout attack. Any alcohol, and especially beer, can increase the risk of gout attacks. Avoid any alcohol if you have painful gout or a gout attack. If you are unsure about your alcohol use, talk to your doctor.
• Drink plenty of water. Aim to drink 2-3 liters (8-12 glasses) of fluid every day. Water is the best choice.

If your goal is to lose weight, choose a weight loss plan that encourages slow and steady weight loss. Rapid weight loss or a diet high in animal protein is not recommended, as this can increase blood uric acid levels and increase the chance of a gout attack. Your doctor or dietitian can help you develop a personalized plan.