If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can cause pain, tenderness, redness, and inflammation. Dietary changes can help manage symptoms and prevent flares. People with gout have high levels of uric acid in their blood. Managing these levels may help relieve or prevent symptoms. Some foods can help lower uric acid levels, while others can increase it. Read on to find out more about the link between diet and gout and to get some tips that may help a person manage gout, including which foods to eat and avoid.

Foods to avoid There is evidence that consuming certain types of food may trigger an episode of gout. Purines Share on Pinterest Eating vegetables can help reduce uric acid levels. In 2004, researchers found that some purines, which are present in animal and plant foods, may worsen the symptoms of gout because the body converts them into uric acid. The study indicates that consuming animal based foods that are high in purines might increase the risk of developing gout. However, eating plant based foods that contain purines does not appear to have the same effect. The researchers add that consuming dairy products may reduce the chances of developing gout. The following foods contain purines. People with gout should significantly limit or avoid them. red meat and organ meat, such as liver or kidneys, which are high in saturated fat

seafood, such as lobster, shrimp, sardines, anchovies, tuna, trout, mackerel, and haddock

sugary drinks and foods that are high in fructose

processed foods and refined carbohydrates

alcohol, especially beer and hard liquor Some people fast to relieve gout. However, the Arthritis Foundation note that fasting may trigger symptoms of gout if a fasting person becomes dehydrated. People with gout should take special precautions when fasting to maintain they drink enough fluids. A 2014 study compared people who fasted and those who did not fast during Ramadan, which restricts food and fluid during daylight hours. The study did not find that people who fasted experienced more episodes of gout or higher uric acid levels than non-fasting participants.

Foods to eat Gout is a chronic, or long term, condition. Developing lifelong healthful eating habits can help a person manage their symptoms. A healthful diet for people with gout should include all the food groups. Foods that can help reduce uric acid levels include: low fat dairy products, such as yogurt and cottage cheese

plant oils, such as olive oil or avocado

pulses, including beans, peas, and lentils

all vegetables, including mushrooms, asparagus, and spinach

fruits, especially those with high fiber and low sugar content, such as berries and citrus

whole grains

nuts

water

oatmeal

lean meat, such as chicken

eggs Overall, a plant based diet is more likely to be beneficial than a high fat diet with a focus on meat to help stabilize uric acid levels. It can also help boost heart health due to the increased consumption of fiber, fruit, vegetable, and monounsaturated fats. This is important, as studies have shown that people with gout may also have a higher risk of developing heart problems. A systematic review, published in 2016, found evidence that coffee may reduce the risk of a gout flareup. Vitamin C A doctor may also recommend vitamin C supplements of 500–1,000 milligrams (mg) a day. Vitamin C supplements are available for purchase online. However, people should not take supplements unless their doctor advises them to do so.

Sample menu People should speak to their doctor for advice about dietary changes. However, here is an example of a healthful menu that may be suitable for a person with gout. Breakfast Loaded oatmeal with coffee and a glass of water. For loaded oatmeal, combine: oats made with low fat milk

berries and cherries

almonds and walnuts Lunch Loaded salad with leafy greens, vegetables, 1–2 boiled eggs, fruit, avocado, flaxseed, and a dressing of olive oil and vinegar 1 cup of black bean soup

1–2 glasses of water Dinner Half a cup of skinless chicken breast (3 ounces)

Half a cup of brown rice, barley, or other whole grain

1–2 cups of broccoli

Half a cup of kefir

1–2 glasses of water

What is gout? Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when there is too much uric acid in the blood. High uric acid levels can cause monosodium urate crystals to form in the joints. Severe pain, tenderness, redness, and inflammation can result. Gout most commonly affects men, but it can also affect women after the age of 60 years. Gout flares can begin suddenly, often at night. They can last from 1–10 days. Symptoms will be most painful during the first 24 hours. Gout often affects the big toe, and even the weight of a blanket can cause severe pain. Without treatment, gout can spread to other joints in the body, in both the upper and lower limbs. Treatments options These include: pain relief medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), colchicine, and steroids

drugs to reduce uric acid levels, such as allopurinol

Weight management and exercise The Arthritis Foundation emphasize how important it is for people with gout to manage their weight. Obesity is a risk factor for developing gout. If a person with gout has excess weight, losing a few pounds can help them: decrease uric acid levels in the body

reduce pressure on painful joints

lower the risk of heart disease

build up strength and flexibility

To achieve this, the person should ask their doctor about:

a suitable diet to help them manage their weight

an exercise plan Anyone who smokes should also ask their doctor to help them with a plan to quit. The Mediterranean diet contains plants, grains, and healthful fats. It may help people manage their weight while eating healthfully.