The Gout Diet

Gout is among the most common known afflictions of arthritis and rheumatic disease, together with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The elderly population represents the most number of cases who are diagnosed with arthritis. Gout is brought about by the accumulation of needle-shaped uric acid crystals in the joints due to the failure of the body to metabolize or process purines. Purines are abundant in certain foods such as liver, kidney, and anchovies. Gout is commonly seen in overweight individuals, men with sedentary lifestyle and those who are over 35 years of age.

Gout is characterized by swelling and excruciating pain in joints such as that found on the feet, hands, knees, shoulders, and elbows. It may sometimes be accompanied by fever and chills. This condition develops gradually and produces unbearable pain which lasts for three to five days if left untreated. However, it should be kept in mind that this condition may last longer than that and can recur. The discomfort is described as a gnawing pain accompanied by a feeling of pressure and tightening in the affected area.

There are many factors that trigger the occurrence of gout but the identified leading cause is the significant increase of uric acid in the blood. This may be due to the excessive production of uric acid by the body or the body’s inability to efficiently excrete uric acid. It is the waste product of cell activity. These abnormally high levels of uric acid lead to the formation of crystals. The formation of crystals does not produce the classic signs and symptoms of gout, it is the accumulation of these crystals in the joint that causes such. Other known contributing factors of gout include hypertension, obesity and severe dehydration.

Some ways which can be easily done at home to manage this condition are to immobilize and keep the joint elevated, over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and other non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), avoiding cold or warm compression, not putting any weight on the affected joint, and wearing of comfortable footwear.  Immobilizing the joint is done through the application of splints and straps. Warm compress promotes dilation of blood vessels which increases the number of white blood cells in the area, irritating it more. Cold compress, on the other hand, allows and further enhances crystal formation and deposition.

It is important to prevent attacks of gout. Taking prescribed medications is the first step to prevent the occurrence of this condition. When no medications have been prescribed, other methods can also be used as well. Lifestyle modification is the key to prevention. Since one of the identified causes of gout is obesity, it is strongly recommended to maintain a desirable weight. This should not be done through a crash diet. Gradual weight loss is preferred rather than rapid weight loss. Weight reduction should be achieved through a healthy balanced diet packed with green leafy vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and minerals.

Rehydration by drinking eight six-ounce of fluid daily has also been identified as an excellent way to prevent attacks of gout. Increased water intake tends to reduce the amount of crystallization, as well decreasing the risk for the development of stones. Alcohol consumption must also be avoided since it causes urate retention. Organ meats, sardines, legumes, and poultry must be avoided since these contain large amounts of purine. Gout diet is a moderate-protein, low-fat diet, and most especially, a low-purine diet.