Gout is an ailment that is characterized by increased uric acid levels in the blood. Uric acid is caused by consuming too much food rich in proteins. Most of this uric acid is retained in the joints and tendons causing pain and stiffness on the affected joints. Patients with the condition can experience pain especially where the uric acid has been deposited and may sometimes cause a chronic case of gouty arthritis. An effective gouty arthritis diet can be very helpful if followed carefully and strictly. The most initial signs are manifested on the big toe when it swells and assumes a reddish color. The first test done before prescribing a gouty arthritis diet is looking for uric acid in the affected toe or joint. If not treated early, this form of arthritis can develop into a more serious and painful case.

How Gouty Arthritis Diet Should Be Followed

Since gouty arthritis is caused by purines, especially proteins, the most effective gouty arthritis diet would be one that reduces the intake of this food type. Such food types include red meats and organ meats like liver, kidney, sweetbread and brain. Other foods that should be avoided include herring, mackerel and anchovies. Arthritis diet food and supplements of purines can be found in a gouty arthritis diet that contains chicken, fish and beef. However, even these foods allowed in the diet should be eaten sparingly. Meat supplements such as soybeans and tofu are more suitable and effective.

Forms of fruits and berries that can be included in a gouty arthritis diet include blackberries, cherries and blueberries. They contain substances that reduce levels of uric acid in the blood. Other foods that can be found in a gouty arthritis diet include flax, nuts, salmon oils and olive oils. They reduce the rates of inflammation on the affected joints. Folic acid and vitamin C are also known to help control gouty arthritis. However, vitamin A should not be included in a gouty arthritis diet because it increases gout attacks in most people.

Another common source of gout is consumption of alcohol. Therefore, an effective gouty arthritis diet should avoid all forms of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol reduces the excretion rate of uric acid and keeps it in the blood longer. Instead, plenty of water should be consumed in order to clean out the uric acid from the bloodstream. Aspirins and caffeine should also be avoided. This will ensure that you stay as healthy as possible.