Lifestyle modifications
Gout occurs due to the accumulation of uric acid with large amounts, and uric acid is the product of purine metabolism. Thus, patients with gout or asymptomatic hyperuricemia should avoid purine-rich foods.
Foods-to-avoid in gout include:
- Red meat and organic meat
- Certain seafood, such as shrimp, dried anchovies, scallops, tuna, and sardines
- dried mushrooms and dried beans and peas
- poultry
Try to get other good sources of protein, such as eggs, and lean meat as chicken. Also, patients with gout should avoid refined carbohydrates, fast food, sugary drinks, and fructose-rich foods. Complex sugars may be more useful for these patients, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. Also, it is better to avoid saturated fats in your diet. Low-fat dairy products help in the reduction of the gout risk. It is also useful to keep your diet plant-based.
Some recent studies have shown a beneficial effect for coffee in the reduction of uric acid levels and the risk of gout flares. Also, your doctor may prescribe vitamin-C supplements.
Alcohol is a potent risk factor for gout; thus, any patient with gout or hyperuricemia should avoid alcohol, especially beer and liquor. Excessive fluid intake (2-3 liters/day) and urine alkalization help in the protection of the kidney.
Obesity increases the risk of gout; thus, the doctor should refer obese patients who suffer from gout to a nutritionist to start a weight-reduction plan. Also, you should follow the management plan for any co-existing disease, such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus, because these diseases raise the risk of gout flares.
The target uric acid is less than 6mg/dl and, in severe cases, less than 5mg/dl.
