Gout is becoming a more common condition. These causes are simple but complex. They affect different people in different ways. Gout can cause real problems in your daily life, including the pain. Gout can make it difficult to get around, get to work, drive, and so forth. You could also end up with permanently damaged or irritated joints if you don’t treat it properly. Gout symptoms can be caused by uric acid crystals accumulating in your joints and tendons.
Symptoms
These crystals can cause severe pain, inflammation, swelling, heat, and redness. They are formed when there is too much uric acid in the bloodstream. Uric acid is made from the breakdown of chemical compounds known as ‘purines’ that are found in many of our foods and in our cells. These purines perform many functions in our bodies. They include converting food into energy and protein genes. As you can see, they are essential for us.
As purines are naturally broken down, the uric acids that are formed is managed by our kidneys. Any excess is flushed out via urine. For a variety of reasons, your kidneys may not be able to do this efficiently. This can lead to gout symptoms.
Management
Gout can be managed by avoiding foods that cause gout. Avoid foods high in purines. Gout relief is more likely to be possible if there are fewer purines. Gout-causing foods to avoid include red meat, offal, poultry and shellfish, as well as anchovies, anchovies and mackerel, herrings, roe and asparagus. Alcohol, of course.
Gout isn’t caused only by high-purine foods. You need to consider many other factors when looking for a solution to your recurring episodes of painful gout. It’s not enough to just get rid of the pain. Gout must be treated at its root cause and not just its symptoms. It is important to find a solution that not only relieves the pain but also prevents gout from ever returning. This will require a lot of effort on your part but it is well worth it if it provides long-lasting relief from your gout.
What are some foods to avoid if you have gout?
Avoid consuming high-purine foods such as organ meats, seafood (such as anchovies and sardines), red meat, and certain types of fish (such as mackerel and herring) to help manage gout.
How can I find relief from gout symptoms?
Gout relief can be achieved by taking prescribed medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids, as recommended by your healthcare professional. Additionally, applying ice packs and elevating the affected joint can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Which foods are known to cause gout?
Gout is often triggered by consuming foods high in purines. Examples of gout-causing foods include beer, organ meats (like liver and kidneys), sweetbreads, shellfish, and certain types of vegetables (such as cauliflower and spinach). It is advisable to limit the intake of these foods to manage gout effectively.
What are high-purine foods that should be avoided to prevent gout attacks?
To prevent gout attacks, it is recommended to avoid consuming high-purine foods such as game meats, gravies, yeast extracts, certain types of fish (like trout and tuna), and alcoholic beverages, especially beer. Opting for low-purine alternatives can help reduce the risk of gout flare-ups.
Are there any dietary guidelines to follow for gout management?
Yes, along with avoiding high-purine foods, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for gout management. This includes consuming an adequate amount of water daily, limiting alcohol intake, incorporating low-fat dairy products, and opting for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary recommendations.