Uric Acid Diet
Diet has always played an important part in preventing gout. In fact it was once thought to be the cause of gout. We know now that it is more of a trigger for gout attacks rather than the cause. We also know that the high uric acid that causes gout is mainly a byproduct of natural cell metabolism where most of it is produced during the breakdown of purines. The purines introduced by the food we eat are only an additional source of uric acid. That being said, a uric acid diet that prevents gout attacks should primarily promote healthy bodily functions for a more efficient metabolism and prevent over production of uric acid or inefficient removal by the kidneys. Next it should limit the introduction of additional purines by avoiding foods high in it. A uric acid diet is no different from a healthy diet plan in that it emphasizes balance and nutrition.
Eat more vegetables and fruits particularly those friendly for gout. Fruits rich in Vitamin C are very good for gout as Vitamin C lowers uric acid naturally. Dark-colored berries rich in flavonoids are not only anti-inflammatory but are also good antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the cells from harmful free radicals that cause damage. This is why cherries, blue berries, cranberries and other dark-colored berries are very popular among gout sufferers. Vegetables such as broccoli, tomatoes and cucumbers are also very good for gout.
Get your proteins from low-fat dairy products and plant-based sources. Purine is a kind of protein very common in red meat, meat offal, fish and other sea foods such as shrimps so avoid all of these. Eat beans, legumes and low-fat dairy instead. A low-fat diet also helps your kidneys work better.
Eat more whole grains instead of refined, processed carbohydrates. Complex carbs are converted to energy more efficiently by the body and they do not contain lots of sugars that cause weight gain. They also contain lots of fiber, vitamins and minerals. Foods like whole grain breads, oatmeal, legumes, wheat pasta, fruits and vegetables are examples.
Increase fluid intake and this does not include alcohol! People with gout are even advised to drink 2 to 3 liters daily. This does not only make you feel good but more importantly it flushes the kidneys of toxins and uric acid. Avoid alcohol like the plague, it is high in purines (especially beer) and interferes with the kidneys’ removal of uric acid.
Do an alkalizing diet if you must eat red meat or any food rich in purines. This simply means that for every acid producing food (such as meat, fish and poultry) taken, compensate with the same amount of alkali producing foods (such as fruits and vegetables). Remember the culprit of gout is an acid. For good measure, gout patients are advised even to double the portion of alkali producing foods taken with acid producing ones.
Preventing gout with a uric acid diet is just one component of an effective gout management. Obesity is a significant risk factor for gout so losing weight is also a priority concern for patients. Those gout patients with ideal body weight can still benefit from an exercise program particularly one that targets problem areas specific to gout like the joints.