Gout is a type of arthritis caused by high uric acid levels in the body which then settles into the joints causing pain, discomfort, mobility problems and other symptoms. Gout is most often seen in the joints of the feet and toes and causes extreme amounts of pain hindering walking and other activities. Though gout can be caused by a number of things, recent studies have shown a direct link between foods high in proteins and purines and the onset or worsening of gout symptoms.
The foods that are high in purines are some of the most popular, and some unconventional, protein based foods. Though the list of the foods to avoid is an average one, there are some key foods to avoid that you may be eating almost everyday without even knowing of the connection between your gout symptoms and your diet.
Some of the foods high in purines include different types of meat, seafood and some other foods. The seafood you should avoid includes haddock, scallops, salmon, herring, smelt, sardines, anchovies, mussels, and trout. While, some of these foods are ones you may not eat, some of them like salmon and scallops are extremely popular. The meats you should avoid include hearts, kidneys, mutton, sweetbreads, turkey, grouse, partridge, veal, bacon, liver, and goose. Yeast is also on the list and you should speak with a nutritionist with gout diet experience because yeast can be a sneaky ingredient found in many things, including bread and beer.
In contrast, there are foods that are designed to help you get rid of gout by counter acting the purines you would be eating or that are already in your body causing you pain and discomfort. A recommended gout diet is one high in complex carbohydrates, low in protein and low in fat, especially animal fat. Some of the foods to eat to help relieve gout symptoms, include: fresh berries, bananas, celery, tomatoes, dark leafy greens, foods high in bromelain, high in vitamin C and low fat dairy products. You also help control gout by drink fruit juices or purified water, staying at a healthy weight, eliminating or minimizing your alcohol consumption and getting plenty of fluids.
While a gout diet can seem intimidating to some with a protein heavy diet, the affects a gout diet can have are amazing and many sufferers of gout have been able to live life more fully and with minimal aid from medications or other treatments. Take the time to learn more about a gout diet and work with a nutritionist with experience with gout diets and keep your doctor in the loop for the best treatment of your gout.
Source by Emmaline Edmunds