Gout Diet: What Foods to Eat and Avoid

Uric acid is a byproduct that our body produces when it breaks down purines. Purines are present in foods. Our body can also make them. Usually, uric acid dissolves in our blood and is eliminated through urine. But when uric acid levels increase from their borderline levels, it can accumulate in our joints and cause gout. Gout is a type of arthritis that results in pain, swelling, and redness. Dealing with gout attacks can be both physically and emotionally challenging for individuals. Other health issues like kidney stones and certain kidney diseases can also elevate uric acid levels in the bloodstream. That's why understanding how diet affects acid levels is crucial for maintaining health and preventing these problems.

Diet for Gout: What to Eat and What Not to 

Diet plays a role in uric acid levels in our body. Certain foods contain concentrations of purines, which can increase acid production, while others can help manage the optimal level of uric acids in our body.

Diet to Avoid Uric Acid (causes excessive accumulation)

It would help if you avoid or limit certain foods to maintain acid levels and reduce the risk of developing gout. These include:

• Purine-rich organ meats, like liver and kidney.
• Shellfish, sardines, anchovies, and other fish like mackerel and herring.
• Some vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, and cauliflower, contain higher purines.
• Corn syrup may increase uric acid levels.

Food to Eat for Uric Acid (reducing the acid levels)

It's essential to focus on hydrating while avoiding purine-rich foods to help reduce acid levels in your diet, and drinking plenty of water aids in flushing out the acid from your system and preventing its build-up. Make it a goal to consume eight glasses of water daily and increase your intake on hotter days or when you engage in more physical activity.

Certain fruits have shown positive effects on acid levels. Specifically, cherries help lower acid levels. Other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and oranges are also beneficial due to their vitamin C content, which is among the best choices of foods to eat to avoid uric acid levels in the blood. 

Including carbohydrates in your diet can also be on your list of foods to eat with gout. Whole grains such as oats, rice, and quinoa are primary sources of complex carbohydrates that can help regulate uric acid production.

Fat dairy products such as milk and yoghurt have an effect against gout by reducing uric acid levels, making them one of the foods to eat for uric acid.

Lifestyle Modifications 

Along with sticking to a dietary plan and avoiding certain foods with gout, lifestyle changes can help manage acid levels. The following lifestyle changes can provide relief:

• Regular exercise can promote overall health. It can help you maintain a healthy weight. Try for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• It's a great idea to avoid alcohol, especially beer. Drinking too much alcohol can increase acid production and decrease its excretion. This will increase your uric acid levels in the bloodstream. If you still wish to drink, it is good to drink in lesser quantities and go for lower-purine options like wine.
• It is also important to manage stress. Try relaxation techniques, take up hobbies more often, or talk to your friends and family.
• Make sure you're getting enough sleep. Poor sleep quality can impact acid levels and increase the risk of gout. Try to get 7 to 9 hours of good sleep every night. It can support your overall health and reduce the chances of getting gout.

When to Contact a Specialist

It can be difficult to manage acid levels with a uric acid diet plan alone, especially if you have health conditions or dietary restrictions. It is best to talk to doctors. Take insights from nutritionists and dietitians as they have specialisation in managing acid levels and related health conditions. They will give a personalised plan which will include food to avoid to reduce uric acid. These health experts make meal plans based on your needs and preferences. They will also navigate the complexities of your food restrictions and make sure you get all the necessary nutrients. They may also ask you to reduce the consumption of foods that can raise uric acid levels. These health experts can offer support, monitor your progress, and make any adjustments to your diet as required. Talking to a nutritionist or dietitian can significantly improve your ability to manage acid levels and improve your overall health.

Conclusion

It is important that you manage your uric acid levels through a proper diet. It helps maintain better health and prevents conditions like gout and kidney stones. Take charge of your well-being and manage acid levels through a diet containing foods to avoid eating with gout. The best thing you can do is avoid high-purine foods. Stay hydrated and include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fatty dairy products in your diet. Do regular exercises, practice stress management techniques and get enough sleep for better outcomes. If necessary, get advice from a nutrition specialist to better understand which uric acid foods to avoid and make choices that prioritise health for a fulfilling life.