Diet Tips for Managing Gout: Foods to Choose and Avoid

Dietary Guidance for Gout Sufferers: What to Eat and Steer Clear Of

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by intense joint pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness. Elevated uric acid levels in the body lead to crystal deposits in joints, causing inflammation. Common affected areas include fingers, wrists, toes—especially the big toe—heels, and knees. Gout attacks may last from 3 to 14 days and, if untreated, can result in joint damage and deformity.

While painful, gout can be managed through medication and dietary adjustments. Certain foods trigger flare-ups by increasing uric acid. Here’s an overview of ideal foods to include and avoid in a gout-friendly diet.

Foods to Incorporate

Nuts and seeds

Legumes like tofu, lentils, and soy products

Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and barley

Healthy plant-based oils including olive, flaxseed, coconut, and canola

Low-fat dairy products

All vegetables

Beverages like green tea, coffee, and herbal teas

Herbs and spices

Fruits, especially cherries, which help reduce uric acid and inflammation

Foods to Avoid

Organ meats like liver, kidney, and brain

Meats such as veal, pheasant, and venison

High-purine fish including mackerel, tuna, sardines, and anchovies

Seafood like crab, prawns, scallops, and fish roes

Sugar-sweetened sodas and fruit juices high in fructose

Sweeteners such as honey, agave nectar, and corn syrup

Yeast-containing foods and drinks

Sweet baked goods, candies, and confectionery

Foods that provoke gout attacks vary. High-purine foods generally trigger symptoms, though fructose-rich drinks can also initiate flare-ups by increasing uric acid levels. Consulting healthcare professionals and nutritionists can aid in crafting an effective diet plan for managing gout effectively.