Gout is a type of arthritis that is common in middle-aged men. Gout is caused due to presence of uric acid in excess in the blood and can be kept at bay by avoiding foods that cause gout. Gout flare ups are the cause of painful, red, swollen joints mostly the knee, ankles and big toe. Uric acid accumulation, the cause of gout is a natural by product of purine metabolism in the body. There are medications that are available for the treatment of gout, but avoiding foods causing gout can also help in keeping this painful condition at bay to some extent.

Steps to be Taken to Avoid Foods that Cause Gout

1. The first step for avoiding foods causing gout is to substitute red meat with poultry or lean meat. Lamb, beef, pork and organ meats contain high concentration of purines hence this can cause gout flare ups. While replacing red meat as a measure to avoid foods that cause gout, do remember to also avoid dishes that contain red meats like extracts, gravy, broth, mincemeat etc. A single serving of purine rich red meat can increase your chances of gout flare ups by a whopping 21%. If you are unable to avoid red meat altogether, restrict the portion size to one serving and keep in mind to drink lots of liquids and flush out excess uric acid produced during purine metabolism.

2. Sea food like scallops, mussels, sardines etc are foods that cause gout and should be avoided. Since fishes and seafood offer protective health benefits like omega-3 fatty acids, do not avoid sea food altogether, just limit the portion size and stick to seafood with lower purine content like crabs, salmon etc.

3. Alcohol in any form is bad for gout and is one of the foods that cause gout. Beer, whiskey and other liquors are natural sources of purines.

4. Fructose containing fruits, legumes and vegetables are foods that cause gout. They should be avoided or restricted. Fructose corn syrup is used in soft drinks to sweeten them and these are full of purines. Avoiding foods causing gout like cauliflower, mushrooms, beans, peas and spinach can help avoid gout flare-ups to some extent.

Gout is a painful condition and during acute flare-ups medical attention is mandatory.

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