When it comes to treating gout, certain foods that are known to cause gout should be avoided. First, learn about the main factors that cause gout: purines, proteins, and acids. Second, determine which sources contain these compounds so you know which foods to avoid causing gout.
purines:
Purines can occur naturally in the body or are acquired from dietary sources. When metabolized, purines become uric acid. They are frequently broken down in our bodies and while this is happening, uric acid becomes their by-product.
Purines have benefits in the body because they protect our blood vessels. However, higher levels of purines could be harmful. When there are too many purines acquired from food, for example, uric levels increase considerably. Elevated levels cause buildup in the body, forming crystals in the joints that cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. The accumulation can also occur in other parts of our body, such as the kidneys. Purines are not only found in meat or seafood, as is commonly perceived, but also in plants. The only difference is that the purines in vegetables are considered much safer than those in red meat and fish, for example. Purines can also be found in dairy products, but they also tend to be safer, especially in low-fat protein sources. Research has shown that the way food is cooked can have an effect on purine levels, but its relevance to preventing off-flavor has yet to be concluded.
In the meantime, it would be wise to familiarize yourself with purine-rich foods to prevent them from causing gout. These include tripe, oatmeal, lobster, beans, tongue, asparagus, cod, lamb, mushrooms, oysters, mutton, duck, chicken, broth, broad beans, pork, and beef. Foods that are even higher in purines include internal organs like kidney and liver, sweetbreads, anchovies, and salsa.
protein:
Proteins are compounds made up of amino acids. These vital compounds are considered the building blocks of life, as they are essential for many functions in the body, including metabolism, cell signaling, cell adhesion, the cell cycle, and immune responses. Proteins help conserve energy and help an organism survive when it is in starvation mode.
However, when we eat too much protein, our kidneys are forced to overwork so they can excrete the excess protein. This causes the body to become too acidic. Therefore, uric acid levels can rise by considerable amounts, causing gout flare-ups.
Protein-rich foods to prevent from causing gout include chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, fish, cheese, milk, eggs, dry beans, dry peas, peanut butter, milk, and eggs.
acids:
Acids are chemical compounds that have pH levels below 7. Raw foods are often acidic and also include lacto-fermented foods. If you don’t have enough alkali in your body to neutralize the acidity, then you may be at risk of developing uric acid crystals. Acidic foods include oranges, nectarines, pineapples, peaches, pears, tomatoes, roundworms, bell peppers, artichokes, pickles, beets, and sauerkraut.
These are all foods to avoid that cause flavor. Always consult with a nutritionist or medical professional before formulating your own diet plan.
