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Gout is a type of arthritis, which is very painful. It results due to increased uric acid accumulation in the body. The causative factors for the increase in uric acid are improper urate removal by the renal system, a diet rich in purines and increase in the uric acid production by the body. This causes the accumulation of monosodium urate crystals in the joints. These crystals are sharp and resemble a needle. They are referred to as tophi, when they deposit under the skin. They also contribute to renal stones, when seen in the urinary tract. The various stages of gout are asymptomatic gout, acute gouty arthritis, interval gout and chronic tophaceous gout. The first stage is devoid of symptoms, other than increase in uric acid levels. Inflammation and pain are seen in the second stage. Interval gout is the in between stage of pain and no symptoms. The joints function in a normal manner. Permanent renal damage is seen in the last stage.
Diet plays a vital role in the treatment of gout. Foods rich in purine are not recommended, as they increase the uric acid levels in the body. They form crystals in the joints, thereby causing inflammation and discomfort. Foods such as sardines, herring, yeast, sweetbread and mussels are rich sources of purine. Goose, anchovies, pheasant, veal, haddock, mutton, liver, scallops, kidneys, liver, partridge and veal are the moderately high sources of purine. A diet rich in complex carbohydrates is helpful. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, cereals and legumes are some of the good sources of dietary fibre. Consumption of less than 130 grams of carbohydrates on a daily basis result in increased accumulation of ketone bodies in the blood, which in turn increases the uric acid levels.
About fifteen percent of the calories are contributed by proteins, in the form of lean meat, poultry and soy. Foods that are allowed are bananas, strawberries, chocolate, coffee, tomatoes, celery, green leaves, parsley, cabbage, blueberries, carbonated beverages and low fat dairy products. Nuts, seeds, tuna, flaxseed and salmon provide essential fatty acids. Bell pepper, orange, tangerine, potatoes and mandarins are high sources of vitamin C that are helpful for gout. Green leaves, potatoes, bananas, vegetable juices and beans are goods sources of potassium and considered helpful. Cold packs are helpful in pain relief. Epsom salt bath also proves beneficial. Abstinence from alcohol is recommended. Water and other liquids prove beneficial. Obesity is considered dangerous in the case of gout. Hence, weight maintenance is essential. Crash dieting is not permitted.
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