What to Eat and What Not to Eat with Gout
- Cutting back on foods that contain purines can help lessen the severity of gout. Animal proteins contain purines. Among those with the highest amounts of purines are organ meats (brain, liver, kidney), mackerel, herring and anchovies. Also cut out alcohol or limit it significantly, as alcohol inhibits the body's ability to process purines and get rid of uric acid.
- If you suffer from gout, increase the amount of water you drink. This helps the body to get rid of uric acid more efficiently. Doctors also recommend drinking low-fat dairy products and eating whole grains. Although studies aren't conclusive, coffee, cherries and moderate amounts of vitamin C may also help to alleviate gout.
- A cherry smoothie is a healthy drink that may help your body to ward off gout. You can make this for breakfast or for an any-time snack. Combine two small bananas, one cup dark pitted cherries, one cup skim milk, one cup orange juice and a few ice cubes in a blender. Blend on high speed until the ice has been crushed and the consistency of the drink is creamy. This smoothie provides a delicious serving of cherries, as well as a healthy dose of vitamin C.