Gout is one form of arthritis in which food may be a factor. Gout is caused by uric acid crystals deposited in and around the joints.

To help prevent painful attacks of gout, many physicians recommend that their patients avoid foods that increase the body’s production of uric acid. Such foods include liver and other organ meats, anchovies, sardines, peas and beans. Because heavy consumption of alcohol can also bring on a gout attack, abstinence is a sensible idea.

In recent years, however, because of effective medications, the role of diet in gout is becoming less a factor, and many people with gout take their medication while not giving up any of their favorite foods.

Gout patients, like others with arthritis, should watch their weight because excess weight increases the stress on painful joints. The physician or nutritionist can suggest a weight-loss program. Fasting to lose weight is not advisable; it has been known to lead to a gout attack, since fasting has been associated with an elevation of the serum uric acid.

Helping Yourself

What you eat is largely your decision. If you shop and cook for yourself, or if you plan the shopping and cooking and it is done by others, your food preferences can be followed closely.

While improving your general nutrition is one of the many factors that interrelate to improve your health, your diet may be the one factor over which you have most control. Help yourself to health by following the diet plan recommended to you by your health care team and learning all you can about good nutrition.