Podiatrist - Erie
3910 Caughey Road, Suite 130
Erie, PA 16506
(814) 833-3668

Gout

Gout is a disease caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints of the body. This happens because the body loses its ability to break down substances called purines, which are found in many foods. This usually leads to severe pain and tenderness, redness, swelling and warmth around the joint. The person often first notices the pain while resting or sleeping, but it can hurt at any time of day or night. Almost any adult can have gout, but it is most commonly seen in men over the age of 40. The joints of the foot, especially the base of the great toe, are usually affected first. Gout is usually diagnosed by an examination, blood tests and x-rays. Fortunately, gout is easily treated with a combination of medications and dietary restrictions. In some cases, a long-term maintenance medicine is necessary to keep the gout from coming back.

Gout Diet
Staying well hydrated is very important to treat and prevent gout. Drink 2-3 liters of fluid each day. Water is best.
Weight loss in overweight people is also important in the control of gout.
Recent anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking cherry juice may reduce the symptoms of gout. This can be found at your local whole foods market.

Foods to Avoid (High Purine Foods)
Alcohol (especially beer)
Bacon
Consommé
Gravy
Anchovies
Sardines
Fish roe
Herring
Mackerel
Trout
Cod
Haddock
Mussels
Smelt
Scallops
Turkey
Veal
Venison
Yeast
Organ meats (liver, kidney, hearts, brains)
Sweetbread meats
Game meats

Foods to Limit (Moderate Purine Foods)
Asparagus
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Chocolate
Colas
Legumes (dried beans, kidney beans, lima beans, lentils, peas, soybeans)
Beef
Bouillon and meat extracts
Chicken
Crab
Duck
Ham
Mutton
Mushrooms
Lobster
Oysters
Pork
Salmon
Shrimp
Spinach
Fruits (especially grapes and apricots)
Oatmeal
Wheat bran
Wheat germ