From the Guidelines
If you have gout, it is crucial to avoid foods high in purines, alcohol, and high-fructose corn syrup to prevent painful flare-ups and manage the condition effectively. According to the most recent guideline from the American College of Rheumatology 1, limiting alcohol intake, purine intake, and high-fructose corn syrup is conditionally recommended for patients with gout. Specifically, foods to avoid or limit include:
- Organ meats (liver, kidneys, sweetbreads)
- Game meats
- Certain seafood (anchovies, sardines, mussels, scallops, trout, tuna)
- Red meat
- High-fructose corn syrup products
- Alcoholic beverages, especially beer
- Sugary sodas and fruit juices with high fructose content
These dietary restrictions are important because gout occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream and forms painful crystal deposits in joints. Purines break down into uric acid in the body, so limiting purine-rich foods helps manage the condition. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through weight loss, if necessary, is also conditionally recommended for overweight or obese patients with gout 1. It is essential to stay well-hydrated with water to help flush uric acid from your system and follow any medication regimen prescribed by your doctor.
The current nutritional recommendations for gout are generally based on low-quality evidence, as stated in a 2018 study 1, emphasizing the need for high-quality evidence in this area. However, the 2020 American College of Rheumatology guideline 1 provides the most recent and relevant recommendations for managing gout through lifestyle factors, including dietary changes.
From the Research
Foods to Avoid with Gout
When managing gout, it is essential to be aware of the foods that can trigger or worsen the condition. The following are some key points to consider:
- A diet rich in meat and seafood can increase the risk of gout, as stated in the study 2.
- Foods and beverages high in fructose can also contribute to the development of gout, according to 2.
- While the provided studies do not give a comprehensive list of foods to avoid, they do emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and alcohol reduction, in managing gout 3.
Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to avoiding certain foods, lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in managing gout. These include:
- Weight loss, which can help reduce the risk of gout, as mentioned in 3.
- Reducing alcohol intake, which can also help manage gout, according to 3.
- Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also help alleviate gout symptoms.
Treatment and Management
It is essential to note that while dietary changes and lifestyle modifications can help manage gout, they should be used in conjunction with medical treatment. The studies provided discuss various treatment options for gout, including: