What is Gout and how to avoid it.

By Mark Surdut APD AN

Ouch! One of the most debilitating inflammatory arthritic conditions affecting men, and one of the most common too, Gout used to be called “the rich man’s disease” because it was linked to rich foods and drinks that once only the wealthy could afford.

What is Gout?

Uric acid can sometimes build up too high in the body and then form small crystals which find their way into our joints.

Gout is not caused by ‘acid foods’. Not everyone who drinks alcohol is affected by gout either. So, what is the truth about diet and gout attacks?

Managing Attacks

One of the best ways to manage the frequency of attacks, or prevent painful flare-ups, is to manage a healthy weight. If you’re overweight, try to drop 10% of your weight to start with.

What to Avoid

Certain foods are high in purines which some (not all) men find can contribute to an attack.

They include:

• Organ meats
• Shellfish
• Sardines
• Anchovies
• Vegemite
• And yes, some drinks like beer and red wine.

If you feel that one of the foods these may be contributing to your gout, cut right back. One of the biggest contributors to a gout attack seems to be fructose – found in fruit and juice.

Limit your intake of fruit, cut out juices and avoid the ingredient “corn syrup”, or “high fructose corn syrup”.

What to Moderate

Moderate your portion size of protein-rich foods, like meat, chicken and fish. A 700g steak is looking for an attack!

Remember, drink alcohol in moderation and drink water plenty.

What to Include

On the other hand, dairy sources like cow’s milk and yoghurt – a couple of serves a day – is shown to reduce the chance of an attack.

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• Improve hair health

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