Gout is a painful form of arthritis that occurs when high levels of uric acid in the blood cause crystals to form and accumulate in and around a joint.
Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down a chemical called purine. Purine occurs naturally in your body, but it’s also found in certain foods. Uric acid is eliminated from the body in urine.
A gout diet may help decrease uric acid levels in the blood. A gout diet isn’t a cure. But it may lower the risk of recurring gout attacks and slow the progression of joint damage.
People with gout who follow a gout diet generally still need medication to manage pain and to lower levels of uric acid.
Gout diet goals
A gout diet is designed to help you:
- Achieve a healthy weight and good eating habits
- Avoid some, but not all, foods with purines
- Include some foods that can control uric acid levels
A good rule of thumb is to eat moderate portions of healthy foods.
