5 Foods to Avoid for Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis that causes inflammation of the joints, leading to pain and stiffness. The condition is often apparent from the constant flare-ups triggered by the weather, stress, and other factors. Although doctors prescribe medications for keeping symptoms under control, diet is also very effective. One can incorporate changes in their diet by avoiding certain foods, such as the ones mentioned here. 1. Alcohol Beer, wine, and other types of alcohol contain a high level of purine, which gets converted into uric acid later. An excess of this acid can crystallize and accumulate in the joints, triggering gout flare-ups along with pain and discomfort. Thus, alcohol can do more harm than good for those with gout. Therefore, the best thing to do would be to have alcohol in moderation or avoid it altogether. 2. Shellfish Shellfish is one of the best foods for a healthy heart. They are rich in good fats and omega-3 fatty acids. However, shellfish may prove to be harmful to those with gout. This is because of their high purine content. Regularly eating mussels, scallops, and other types of shellfish will increase uric acid levels in the body, leading to gout flare-ups, followed by stiffness, redness, pain, and inflammation in the affected joints.