Medically Reviewed by Dr. Rachel N. Verville
March 21, 2024
Gout is a condition characterized by the sudden onset of swelling in the joints. The good news is that gout flare-ups are often caused by diet and are easy to trace. Gout is caused by excess levels of uric acid, and by avoiding the foods that generate or preserve uric acid, it is usually possible to minimize flare-ups. The question is, which foods cause the buildup of uric acid that triggers an attack of gout?
Foods Commonly Connected with Gout
There are a few food groups that get linked with gout flare-ups.
Red Meat
Gout pain is often accompanied by a diet high in red meat. Removing red meat from your diet is one of the first steps podiatrists recommend to limit the effects of gout. Switching to lean meat or plant-based protein can go a long way toward keeping flare-ups in check.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption and gout go hand-in-hand. Reducing your alcohol consumption can tremendously reduce your gout discomfort. To clarify, most gout sufferers do not require complete abstinence from alcohol – although that is an option if you prefer. Simply moderating your alcohol consumption should be sufficient in most cases of gout.
High Fructose Corn Syrup
High fructose corn syrup can also contribute to gout. It is a good idea to remove drinks and candies from your diet as much as possible, opting for sugar-free and HFCS-free alternatives. Artificial sweeteners and unprocessed sugars are better options to consider.
Learn More About Gout Care from RNV Podiatry
While living with gout can be quite difficult, the good news is, that simple lifestyle changes are usually sufficient for making these attacks a thing of the past. Reach out to RNV Podiatry with any additional questions about curbing the effects of gout.
