Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis, which can occur when uric acid crystals form in the joints. This causes the body to respond, causing inflammation and pain. People with gout tend to have increased levels of uric acid in their blood. Uric acid is made from proteins that are broken down in the body.

Below are some factors that can cause blood uric levels to increase:

• Overweight/Obesity
• Poor fluid intake
• Rapid weight loss
• High intake of dietary purines
• Alcohol intake

Always seek professional advice from a qualified dietitian before commencing any new diet.

High protein diets are not recommended for weight loss as they can trigger gout.

If you are overweight reduce the portion size of your meals, and try to limit the intake of sugar and fatty foods too.

Try to trim fat from meat, remove skin from chicken.

Avoid fried foods and most takeaways – try steaming/grilling/dry baking.

Try to limit the use of butter and margarine, spread lightly on one side only.

Use low fat dairy products, or low fat fortified soy products.

Try to use fresh fruit if hungry between meals rather than biscuits, chips and other snack foods.

Have only moderate amounts of meat, 3-4 meals per week; seafood 1-2 portions per week. Studies have shown that meat and seafood have associated risk of gout when eaten in high amounts.

Include a variety of the following foods every day: fruits, legumes and vegetables. These foods contain dietary fibre, folate and antioxidants which are particularly protective against inflammation and gout.

Eggs.

Wholegrain breads and cereals, including noodles and rice.

Low fat milk and milk products. Some research has shown that low fat dairy products may help prevent gout.

Some ideas to control your weight and limit the build up of uric acid in the body: 

Be active. Try to exercise most days of the week for at least 30 minutes. If you are able, also include some vigorous activity on 3-4 days a week, like squash, netball, aerobics or speed walking.

Drink more water. Try to drink 2 litres of water every day to help flush uric acid from your body. This is particularly important if you are losing weight rapidly.

For more information or before trying anything new consult your doctor.