Gout is a type of arthritis that develops when blood uric acid levels are abnormally high. The uric acid forms like crystals in the joints, often in the feet and big toes, which causes painful swelling. Some people need medication to treat gout (if it is worse) but diet and lifestyle changes may also help. Lowering uric acid can reduce the risk of gout and may even prevent it in earlier stage.

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EAT LOW PURINE FOOD

By switching from foods with a high purine content to those with a lower purine content, some people may be able to steadily lower their uric acid levels or at least avoid further increases. It is also important to note that not everyone who gets gout eats a high-purine diet. Some foods with low purine content include low fat, fat free dairy products, peanut butter, nuts, fruits, vegetables, whole grain rice and bread. Avoid eating trout, tuna, haddock, sardines, anchovies and mussels. These are high in purine!

MAINTAIN HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT

Reaching a healthy body weight may help reduce the risk of gout. Obesity increases the risk of gout, especially in people of a younger age. It can raise blood pressure and cholesterol while increasing the risk of heart disease. Rapid weight loss may raise uric acid levels too. People should focus on making long-term sustainable changes to manage their weight, such as becoming more active, eating a balanced diet, and choosing nutrient-dense foods.

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DRINK COFFEE

People who drink coffee are less likely to develop gout. As people with gout have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, drinking coffee may help improve their overall health. Coffee does increase the risk of chronic kidney disease and the likelihood of bone fractures, so it is important to drink in moderate.

EAT CHERRIES

Cherries might reduce the risk of gout attacks, particularly in people with a prior history of the disease. This effect persisted even when researchers controlled for risk factors, such as age, sex, alcohol consumption, and use of diuretics or anti-gout medication. Among people who also used allopurinol, an anti-gout drug, the combination of the drug and cherries lowered the risk of another attack by 75%.

TAKE VITAMIN C SUPPLEMENT

Taking a vitamin C supplement may lower the risk of gout. Reduced uric acid levels could lower the risk of gout attacks. Food with high vitamin C can also be consumed like Oranges, Papaya, Broccoli and Tomato.

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