Fish diet for Gout patients:

Which fish, shrimp are safe to eat for gout sufferers?

Gout is caused by high uric acid levels in the body.



While most of the uric acid is made by the body, some of it is also contributed by the purine rich foods which come from foods and beverages. Shrimp and other shellfish contain moderate levels of purine and can be used in moderation for patients suffering from gout. Depending on the uric acid levels 1 to 2 servings (2-3oz) of shrimp or other fish like Bombay duck can be included twice in a week.



However other fish like mackerel, sardines, scallops, herring, mussels and anchovies are high in purine so should be avoided completely. Other foods which are high in purine and must be avoided include organ meats like brain, heart, liver, kidneys, game meat, goose partridge, sweet breads containing yeast, other yeast products, meat, minced meat and gravies of the food that are high in purines. Other guidelines for healthy gout diet and to minimize the gout symptoms are listed below –

1. During an acute gout attack drink at least 2-3 liters of fluid in a day, out of which half is water.
   
   
   
   Water will help to dilute the urine and flush the toxins from the body.
2. Avoid alcohol and foods high in purines completely. Alcohol can cause excess uric acid buildup in the body.
3. For proteins you can include low-fat dairy products, tofu and small amounts of eggs.
4. Emphasize on high carbohydrate foods like whole grain cereals and its products and fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid the intake of deep fried foods, oily foods, and high fat dessert; also limit the intake of excess fats, sugar, salad dressing, butter and margarine. 
5. If you are above your ideal body weight then it would be wise to lose weight. Weight loss however should be a gradual process. Do not go on any fad diets or high protein diets as a sudden weight loss can actually raise your uric acid levels and make gout worst. Set a target to lose not more than ½ kg per week as being overweight can cause uric acid buildup in the body. If you have a mild form of the disease then try to maintain a certain level of fitness by performing mild exercises like stretching or walking.
   
   
   
   This will help in weight loss process and also make you feel better.
6. Besides following these guidelines you may also require medications to lower your uric acid levels, so consult a specialist for the same.