We all have heard of gout, but are unaware of the side effects of this disease. Lets us inform you what gout is and how effects our body? Gout is one of the most painful types of arthritis, and accounts for 5 percent of all cases of arthritis. Gout was originally a disease of the affluent, primarily observed in middle-aged men of the wealthy upper class. Gout known as "disease of kings and king of diseases," is characterized by sudden, severe bouts of redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and inflammation in one or more joints. Most commonly the big toe is the initial joint involved, but other joints may be involved initially or become involved in recurring attacks of gout. Gout results from the deposit of needle like uric acid crystals in the connective tissue, the joint space between two bones, or both. Uric acid is formed by the breakdown of purines and is excreted in urine. Purines are naturally found in the body and are present in many foods. It is excess uric acid in the body which causes the formation of uric acid crystals. Excess uric acid (hyperuricemia) in the body can be caused by:

• An increase in production of uric acid by the body
• Under-elimination of uric acid by the kidneys
• Increased intake of foods high in purines

What to do?
Diet plays an important role in maintaining the level of uric acid in the body. High levels of uric acid in the body can be reduced by consuming certain foods and reducing or completely avoiding purine rich foods.

1. Gout increases the risk of heart disease so limit the amount of fat in your diet. Choose low-fat foods such as skim milk, low-fat cheeses, fruits and vegetables. Choose foods that are baked instead of fried.
2. Consume foods that are rich in potassium like potatoes, dried peaches, orange juice, apples, bananas, skimmed milk and yogurt, kidney beans, yam, etc.
3. Diet for reduction of uric acid should contain foods rich in good quality protein like tofu, lean meat and sprouts.
4. Fresh fruits like berries, cherries, bananas, tea, celery, parsley, cabbage and tomatoes are beneficial in reducing uric acid levels.
5. Foods that are low in purines and protein like eggs, butter, cheese, corn, gelatin, peanut butter, etc. should be a part of the diet of those suffering from hyperuricemia.
6. Products like rice, pasta, whole wheat breads and cereals should be regularly consumed.
7. Foods rich in bromelain and vitamin C like pineapples, red cabbage and red bell peppers can also be very effective in reducing uric acid.
8. Soy products, lemon juice and fibrous foods, chocolate and carbonated beverages help in natural uric acid reduction.
9. Fatty acids found in salmon, olive oil, flax, nuts, etc. can also be beneficial to reduce uric acid levels.
10. Try to maintain an ideal body weight to decrease the amount of stress on your joints. Losing weight may also decrease levels of uric acid in your blood.
11. Plenty of water and fluids like fresh juices and soups should be consumed for the elimination of uric acid through urine.

Certain guidelines to follow:
While following a diet for the reduction of uric acid, foods that are extremely high and moderately high in purines and protein, especially some kinds of meat and seafood, should be strictly eliminated.

1. Foods like yeast, pork, lamb, shrimps, anchovies, hearts, mussels, sardines, organ meats such as kidneys, liver and sweetbreads, etc. are extremely high in purines and protein and should be avoided.
2. Those moderately high in purines and proteins include mushrooms, spinach, cauliflower, dried beans, peas, asparagus, turkey, goose, chicken, oatmeal, bacon, etc. So one serving of either of them is allowed daily.
3. Alcohol, especially beer and soft drinks should be avoided completely as it increases the levels of uric acid in the body.

In short, to prevent gout, diet should be low in proteins and purines and high in potassium and complex carbohydrates. It is also essential to maintain a healthy body weight. The diet, along with exercise, should be able to successfully lower uric acid levels in the body.

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