What are the foods that cause Gout?

In this article, we will explore the link between diet and gout, looking into which foods may cause gout flare-ups and which ones could potentially help treat symptoms. We'll discuss what causes gout, exploring whether lifestyle changes, including changes in diet, can effectively manage the condition. As well as this, we will also look at the more conventional treatments that people with gout may be required to use, as well as where you can get these treatments from.

What is gout?

Gout, as defined by the NHS, is a form of arthritis characterised by abrupt and intense joint pain. This condition can manifest suddenly and cause significant discomfort. While painkillers can provide relief from the symptoms, adopting healthier lifestyle choices can play a significant role in avoiding future gout attacks.

What causes gout?

Gout is caused by an accumulation of uric acid in the blood, according to NHS Inform. When the body produces excess amounts of uric acid, or if the kidneys fail to filter it out, it can accumulate and lead to minuscule, sharp crystals forming in and around the joints. These crystals can provoke inflammation, leading to symptoms such as joint redness, swelling, and pain.

Can the food you eat cause gout?

Yes, the food you eat can indeed influence gout. This is because certain foods contain purines, a chemical that breaks down into uric acid in the body. While uric acid is naturally produced during the breakdown of purines, consuming foods rich in purines can cause elevated uric acid levels in the blood. According to the Mayo Clinic, a diet tailored to manage gout may focus on limiting purine-rich foods to help decrease uric acid levels. It's important to note that a gout-focused diet isn't a cure for the condition, but rather a way to reduce the risk of gout attacks and slow down joint damage. Even with dietary adjustments, people with gout typically still require medication to manage pain and lower uric acid levels effectively.

What are the foods that cause gout?

To manage gout effectively through diet, it's advisable to avoid certain foods that are high in purines and may exacerbate symptoms. These include, according to the Arthritis Foundation:

• Beer and distilled liquor (moderate consumption of wine is generally considered acceptable)

• Organ meats like liver and kidney

• Sugary drinks, sweets, and desserts

• High-fructose corn syrup, often found in diet drinks, bakery goods, breakfast cereals, and fast foods

• Red meat (beef, lamb, and pork)

• Saturated fats found in red meat, butter, cream, ice cream, and coconut oil

It's recommended to consume the following foods in moderation:

• Seafood, although moderate amounts of fish, especially salmon, are now considered beneficial

• 100% fruit juice (except cherry juice, which may actually lower gout risk)

• Fresh fruits, although the impact of fructose in whole fruits on uric acid levels isn't entirely clear

• Caffeinated coffee in moderate amounts, which may lower the risk of gout

Which foods can help to treat gout?

There are in fact some foods that you can begin to incorporate into your diet if you are trying to prevent gout flare-ups. According to the Arthritis Foundation, the following foods are the best to help prevent or treat gout:

• Lean chicken and certain fish, such as salmon

• Reduced-fat dairy products, particularly yoghurt

• Fresh and frozen vegetables, including high-purine options like asparagus and spinach

• Healthy fats like olive oil, avocadoes, and fish oil supplements (omega-3 fatty acids)

• Whole grains

• Nuts

• Legumes such as beans and lentils

• Vitamin C supplements (around 500 mg per day)

• Cherries

Which treatments are available to treat gout?

Several treatments are available to manage and alleviate symptoms of gout. Some commonly prescribed medications that you can purchase online from UK Meds include:

• Allopurinol: This medication helps lower uric acid levels in the blood by reducing its production. It's often prescribed for long-term management of gout and to prevent recurrent gout attacks.

• Colchicine: Colchicine is typically used to relieve pain and inflammation during acute gout attacks. It works by reducing the inflammation caused by uric acid crystals in the joints.

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs such as naproxen and diclofenac are commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with gout attacks. They work by reducing inflammation in the affected joints.

You can purchase these medications online from UK Meds by completing our online consultation form. Once this has been approved you will be provided with a free private prescription that allows you to complete your purchase at UK Meds.

Sources

• Gout Diet - Mayo Clinic

• Gout Diet: Dos and Don'ts - Arthritis Foundation

• Gout Diet to Curb Flares - WebMD

• All About Gout and Diet - UK Gout Society (PDF)

• Gout Diet Slideshow - WebMD

• Gout Diet - Verywell Health

• Which Foods Are Safe for Gout? - Arthritis Foundation

• Gout Diet Sheet - Patient.info

• Best Diet for Gout - Healthline

• Gout Diet: Foods to Eat and Avoid - Medical News Today

• Foods to Avoid with Gout - Verywell Health

• Gout Information - UK Meds