Gout

Gouty arthritis is caused by a condition called hyperuricemia, which is the presence of high levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product that forms when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found naturally in the body and certain foods. 

In individuals with gout, either the body produces an excessive amount of uric acid, or the kidneys have difficulty eliminating it efficiently. As a result, uric acid can accumulate and form crystals in the joints, especially in the extremities such as the big toe, ankle, knee, wrist, or finger joints.

When the uric acid crystals build up, they can trigger an inflammatory response in the affected joint, leading to sudden and severe pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the area. Gout attacks often occur unexpectedly and can be quite painful.

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing gout, including:

1. Diet: Consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat, organ meats, shellfish, and certain types of fish, can contribute to higher levels of uric acid.

2. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of gout as excess body weight can lead to higher uric acid production and reduced elimination.

3. Genetics: Gout tends to run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition to the condition.

4. Medical conditions: Certain health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome are associated with a higher risk of developing gout.

5. Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics (water pills) used to treat hypertension, can interfere with uric acid elimination and increase the likelihood of gout.

It's important to note that while diet plays a role in gout development, it's not the sole cause. Gout is a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and overall health. Proper management and treatment can help control gout symptoms and prevent future attacks. 

Making certain dietary changes can help manage gout and reduce symptoms. Here are some guidelines on what to eat and what to avoid:

What to eat:

1. Low-fat dairy products: Include low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese in your diet as they have been associated with lower levels of uric acid and a reduced risk of gout.

2. Plenty of fruits and vegetables: Opt for a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Cherries, in particular, have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Whole grains: Choose whole grain foods like whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal. They provide fiber and other nutrients that are beneficial for overall health.

4. Lean proteins: Include lean sources of protein such as poultry, fish, and tofu. These options are lower in purines, which are substances that break down into uric acid.

5. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out uric acid from your body and maintain proper hydration.

Single polished rice, wheat flour, millets, corn, Potato, carrot, gourd, pumpkin, ladies finger, tomato, Whole fruit, seasonal fruit, citrus fruit, cherry, Peanut, walnut, almond, flaxseed, Low fat milk, low fat curd/ buttermilk/ paneer, Egg

What to avoid:

1. High-purine foods: Limit or avoid high-purine foods like organ meats (liver, kidney), shellfish, red meat, and certain types of fish (such as anchovies and sardines). These foods can increase uric acid levels.

2. Alcohol: Reduce or avoid alcohol consumption, especially beer and spirits, as they can interfere with uric acid elimination and trigger gout attacks.

3. Sugary beverages: Limit your intake of sugary sodas and fruit juices as they are linked to an increased risk of gout.

4. Processed foods: Avoid processed and packaged foods that are high in refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and added sugars. These can contribute to weight gain and worsen gout symptoms.

5. Limit fructose intake: Be cautious with foods and drinks sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup or excessive amounts of fruit sugar (fructose), as they can raise uric acid levels.

Refined flour, Fermented soy product,Packaged fruit juice, Fresh fruit juice,Full fat milk,Animal organ, seaweed, dry fish, canned fish, seasfood,Refined sugar, Refined oil, animal fat, milk fat

Keep a check : 

Oats, Any dal, sprouts, besan, sattu , soybean,Asparagas, Spinach, Cauliflour, Mashroom, Broccoli, Sunflower seed, Fish, chicken, red meat, fish roe, Sugar, jaggery, honey, Kachhi ghani oil, double filtered oil, ghee, homemade butter

Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and needs.