Gout is a condition that results from the buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It causes excruciating pain and may even lead to possible disability. Excess uric acid in the body leads to the formation of crystals that are deposited in joints and surrounding soft tissue. Gout flares are highly painful and will limit your normal activities.
Gout diet is the first defense against gout. There are recommended foods that can help you to relieve pain and inflammation and to manage weight.
These are some of the helpful tips:
- Rest your joints – You need to rest your joints up to 24 hours after the pain gets better.
- Elevate – You should lift the affected areas above your heart during a gout attack.
- NSAIDS – These medications reduce the inflammation and pain after an attack. However, you should avoid aspirin since it raises the levels of uric acid and worsens the situation.
- Increase the Intake of Fluids – Take large amounts of fluids, especially water, to help you in excreting excess uric acid.
Gout Diet
Uric acid is the primary cause of gout. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid all foods that tend to increase the levels of uric acid in the body. Even after treating the first gout attack, it is crucial to employ a good dietary practice that will minimize the risk of subsequent attacks.
These are some of the helpful tips on diet:
Reduce the intake of poultry, meat, and fish – Animal proteins are high in purines. Organ meats have the highest levels of purine, although all meats contain purines. You should find other alternatives to substitute animal proteins. If necessary, take at most 6 ounces of these meats in one day.- Eat a diet low in fat – Saturated fats hinder the body’s capabilities of excreting uric acid. You should find foods that do not expose you to high levels of fat intake. These include dairy products that are fat-free and plant proteins.
- Avoid beer – All alcoholic drinks are known to increase the levels of uric acid in the body. Beer is especially notorious and may even inhibit the bodily mechanisms of healing from gout. If possible, take only 5 ounces of wine in a sitting. However, you should try as much as possible to avoid alcoholic drinks during a gout attack.
- Avoid the intake of corn syrup products that contain high fructose levels – Corn syrup products high in fructose can increase the amount of uric acid in the bloodstream. You need to go for products that contain only fruit juice. Fructose will be adverse to your health.
- Take a lot of whole grains – Refined carbohydrates interrupt the bodily processes of controlling uric acid. Whole grains are good for your health and may help you to flush out excess uric acid. Stick to whole grain bread or pasta and plain white.
The above tips for your diet will be helpful in managing gout. You should seek your doctor’s attention for proper diagnosis and design of an appropriate treatment plan. Your doctor will also advise you on how to avoid reactions with other medications or health complications such as heart, liver, and kidney issues.
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