Diets, Eat to beat illness, Gout, Dietary management of Gout.

Gout

Gout is a medical condition usually characterized by recurrent attacks of acute inflammatory arthritis—a red, tender, hot, swollen joint. It is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood which crystallize and are deposited in joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues. Diagnosis is confirmed clinically by the visualization of the characteristic crystals in joint fluid.

Long-standing elevated uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) may result in other symptomatology, including hard, painless deposits of uric acid crystals known as tophi. Extensive tophi may lead to chronic arthritis due to bone erosion. Elevated levels of uric acid may also lead to crystals precipitating in the kidneys, resulting in stone formation and subsequent urate nephropathy.

A good diet for gout patients must consider all health issues. This is particularly important as many gout sufferers also endure other diseases such as high blood pressure and heart disease.

Omitting entire food groups may harm general health. A good diet for gout patients must be balanced across all food groups. A low purine diet can help to reduce gout attacks as purine is metabolized in the body to produce uric acid.

GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT OF GOUT THROUGH DIET
• Avoid high purine foods like organ meat, seafood, asparagus, spinach, avocado, mushroom and alcohol.

• As often the patients suffering from gout are overweight, Weight-reducing, calorie restricted diet, with moderate carbohydrate restriction and increased proportional intake of protein and unsaturated fats should be used.

• To reduce acidity, eat plenty of raw fruit, vegetables, (especially celery and tomatoes) grains, seeds, and nuts. Dark red and blue berries, which are anti-inflammatory and neutralize excess acidity, are an excellent source for gout treatment.

• Dehydration reduces kidney function, allowing uric acid to build up. Drinking lots of fluids- especially water- will help keep the organs hydrated and dilute the amount of uric acid in the body. • Exercising regularly and making time for relaxation is also important. Studies show the risk of gout rises with increasing weight.

• Bromelain, derived from pineapple, is an effective and suitable alternative to stronger prescription anti-inflammatory agents used in gout treatments. For best results, bromelain should be taken between meals.

• Fish oil supplements, and other foods containing omega-3's (walnuts, whole soy products, cold-water fish, and fortified eggs) can also be beneficial for reducing pain and swelling.

• Vitamin E, selenium, vitamin A, and aspartic acid have been recommended for both prevention and gout treatment.

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