Food to Reduce Uric Acid - Gout (Low Purine) Diet

1. Cherries: Cherries, both sweet and tart varieties, have been associated with lower uric acid levels and a reduced risk of gout attacks. You can consume fresh cherries or unsweetened cherry juice.

2. Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and other berries are rich in antioxidants and can be beneficial for reducing inflammation associated with gout.

3. Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Foods high in vitamin C may help lower uric acid levels. Citrus fruits, kiwi, and bell peppers are good sources.

4. Low-Fat Dairy: Low-fat dairy products like milk and yogurt have been linked to a lower risk of gout attacks.

5. Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, such as oats, brown rice, and whole wheat, are a good source of fiber and may help in managing uric acid levels.

6. Lean Proteins: Opt for lean sources of protein, like poultry, tofu, and legumes, rather than high-purine meats.

7. Water: Staying well-hydrated is crucial to help flush excess uric acid from the body. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

8. Green Tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for managing uric acid levels.

Food to Avoid in Uric Acid - Gout (High Purine) Diet

1. High-Purine Foods: Purines are compounds that are broken down into uric acid in the body. Foods high in purines should not be consumed in or avoided if you have high uric acid levels. Examples include:

2. Organ meats: (liver, kidney, heart)

3. Red meat (beef, lamb, pork)

4. Game meats (venison, rabbit)

5. Some seafood (anchovies, sardines, mussels, herring)

6. Processed Meats : Processed meats like bacon, sausages, and hot dogs are often high in purines and should be limited.

7. High-Fructose Foods : Some studies have suggested a link between high fructose intake and increased uric acid levels. Foods and beverages high in fructose include:

8. Sugary drinks (soda, fruit juices with added sugars)

9. High-fructose corn syrup (often found in processed foods)

10. Some fruits (such as sweetened dried fruits)

11. Alcohol : Alcohol, especially beer and liquor, can increase uric acid production and should be consumed in moderation or avoided. Wine, in moderation, may have a lower impact on uric acid levels.

12. Yeast Extracts : Foods like yeast extracts, yeast-containing spreads, and some gravies can be high in purines.

13. Certain Vegetables: While most vegetables are considered safe, some are moderately high in purines. You can consume them, but in moderation. These include:

• Spinach
• Asparagus
• Cauliflower
• Mushrooms

Exercise to Control Uric Acid

Exercise regularly. Exercise helps to lower uric acid levels and improve overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase uric acid levels. Losing weight can help to lower uric acid levels and improve overall health.

What are the uric acid symptoms?

• Acute Joint Pain: The most characteristic symptom of gout is sudden and severe joint pain. This often occurs in one joint, most commonly in the big toe, but it can also affect the ankle, knee, wrist, and other joints. The pain typically comes on rapidly.
• Swelling: The affected joint may become swollen and tender to the touch. The swelling can be quite pronounced and make the joint look red and inflamed.
• Warmth and Redness: The skin around the affected joint may become warm to the touch and appear red.
• Limited Range of Motion: Gout can lead to a decreased range of motion in the affected joint due to pain and swelling.
• Recurrent Attacks: Gout often presents as recurrent attacks, with periods of intense symptoms followed by periods of remission when the joint feels normal.
• Nodules: In some cases, people with chronic and poorly managed gout can develop small, chalky deposits of uric acid crystals under the skin, known as tophi. These tophi can occur on the joints, fingers, and other areas of the body.

Other Tips to Reduce Uric Acid

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase uric acid levels and trigger gout flares.
Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can increase uric acid levels. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Manage stress. Stress can trigger gout flares. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time with loved ones.

If you have high uric acid levels, your doctor may also prescribe medication to help lower them.
It is important to note that these are just general tips. It is important to talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your uric acid problem based on your circumstances.