Gout is a kind of arthritis and has similar symptoms, such as pain, tenderness, redness, and inflammation. The main reason for gout is a high level of uric acid in the blood which causes crystals to forms and accumulate in and around a joint. Lowering uric acid levels can help relieve or prevent symptoms. Here is a list of food triggers for gout patients.

Purines
Consuming a lot of vegetables is good for overall health and helps lower uric acid levels as well. Some studies show that some purines, present in animal and plant foods, may aggravate gout symptoms, as the body converts them into uric acid which results in gout. Animal-based foods, high in purines, make a person prone to develop gout.

Abstain from eating red meat and organ meat, such as beef, grouse, mutton, pork, ham, chicken, partridge, pheasant, goose, turkey, duck, and seafood such as lobster, sardines, crab, oysters, shrimps, anchovies, scallops, tuna, trout, mackerel, salmon, and haddock or have them in moderation. One can also consult their doctor for food triggers for gout patients. Vegetables such as asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, and cauliflower also contain purines, so one should limit their consumption of these vegetables.

Alcohol
Alcohol tops the list of food triggers for gout patients. Alcohol makes it difficult for the kidney to get rid of uric acid and this because even harder for gout patients. If one is having a gout attack, they should avoid alcohol, as it will worsen the pain, causing them a lot of discomfort. Beer is bad for gout and should be avoided. One can consider having wine but that too in moderation. The high levels of purines found in alcohol can be hazardous for gout patients.

High sugar
Studies reveal that sugar can have an adverse effect on uric levels. If one is suffering from gout, they should not consume a lot of sugar. They must also avoid the consumption of candies, sweets, and sugar-rich beverages. A high intake of sugar can also lead to weight gain, which can trigger gout symptoms.

Refined carbs
Refined carbs are also included in food triggers for gout patients. Food items such as white bread, cakes, pasta, and cookies should be avoided. Although they are not high in fructose or purine, they are low in nutrients and might raise one’s uric acid levels.

Soda
Avoid indulging in fizzy sweet beverages such as sodas. Soft drinks, fruit juices, and sports drinks are very high in sugar and are just not good for gout patients. Consuming soda or similar drinks once in a while is fine but don’t drink them regularly.

Knowing the food triggers for gout patients will help one manage the condition and keep symptoms at bay.