Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that causes extreme pain, especially in the big toe. If you have ever experienced a flare-up, you will do nearly anything to avoid one. Diet is a big contributor to flare-ups, and you would do best to avoid red meats and organ meats, seafood, processed and sugary foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol. With a few tweaks to your diet you can avoid painful flare-ups and live a healthier lifestyle.
Breakfast
Did someone say oatmeal? Starting your day with oatmeal is a great, gout-friendly way to fuel your body. Add some berries for their great taste and their powerful antioxidants. Additionally, Vitamin C is an important component in keeping gout at bay, so a glass of orange juice would be a great idea. A study also notes that coffee could help avoid a gout flare up. Pour yourself a cup of joe to go with the oatmeal!
Lunch
Leafy greens are part of any healthy diet, as the antioxidants and nutritional value is so high. Pair that with a hard-boiled egg and vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and asparagus. Adding a cup of black bean soup will help you feel fuller longer, and also help you avoid gout. Another consideration is low fat cottage cheese, which would make a great addition to your salad.
Dinner
Dinner can be filled with lean meats, lentils or beans, vegetables and whole grains. A piece of grilled chicken and quinoa, for instance, would keep the gout at bay. A hearty lentil soup would also fit the bill. Using spices will boost your flavor threshold and metabolism, while also keeping the processed foods out of your diet.
Snacks
Nuts are a great source of healthy fats and should be your go-to snack whether or not you are trying to avoid a gout flare-up. Berries and citrus fruits would also make great snacks, or a cup of lowfat cottage cheese or a hard boiled egg. Avoid the type of go-to snacks found in vending machines and wrapped in cellophane.
Much of the menu above is part of a standard healthy diet, but when the stakes are high and you are trying to avoid a gout flare-up, the lean meats, beans, nuts, and whole grains will really save the day.
