Sunday, July 23, 2006

Gout: Foods To Take And To Avoid

Gout: Foods To Take And To Avoid

Gout is commonly marked by swelling, inflamation and excrutiating tenderness in the joints. The affected joints are normally at base of the big toe, ankles, other foot joints, knees, wrists and fingers.

Gout is caused by an inherited defect in the kidney's ability to excrete uric acid. When too much of uric acid is deposited in the synovial fluid that surrounds the joints forming jagged crystals, our body's immune system attempts to eliminate them through inflamation process. Intense pain normally follows and might last for days if left untreated.

How to manage gout with diet

Avoid foods that are high in purines, such as anchovies, sardines, kidney, liver, meat extracts, mackerel, herring, scallops, game, beer, and red wine. Try also avoiding cereals, bran, oatmeal, beans and peas, and nuts.

Consume plenty of liquids, about 2 litres a day to dilute urine and prevent kidney stone formation. However, avoid caffeinated beverages and alcoholic drinks.

Eat plenty of fish high in omega-3 to reduce inflamation.

Take fresh fruits that are high in vitamins and minerals, and dietary fibre.

Limit consumption of vegetables such as cauliflower, asparagus, green peas, spinach, and mushroom.

Finally, get your doctor's advice if you are on drug therapy beause certain drugs are known to interfere with normal kidney functions.

Gout: Foods To Take And To Avoid

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