Top Foods to Avoid for Gout Prevention: Know the Risks

Health risks always threaten those who do not care about their healthy lifestyle. Not only can it cause discomfort, it also causes chronic diseases like gout. Many people are unaware that the causes of gout are often simple things that are frequently overlooked. Gout is commonly associated with unhealthy eating habits. On many official health or hospital websites, there is an extensive list of foods that can trigger this disease. These foods are easy to find, often eaten, and generally tasty.

Once Known as a Rich Person’s Disease

Gout was once labeled as a "rich person's disease" because it was associated with daily diets accessible only to those with high economic status. However, with the easy access to various food ingredients today, everyone must be cautious of this risk. Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause pain and sudden joint swelling. Initial symptoms often appear in the big toe, then spread to the fingers, wrists, knees, and heels. In a healthy body, uric acid is easily expelled through the kidneys into the urine. But when kidney function deteriorates and can no longer process uric acid efficiently, urate crystals accumulate in the joints, causing discomfort.

What Foods Cause Gout and Should Be Avoided?

As mentioned earlier, the list of foods that cause gout is quite long. So, for those who love culinary adventures, tighten your seat belts and carefully examine the following types of foods.

1. Spinach and Broccoli

Known as healthy foods, spinach and broccoli should be consumed cautiously. Those at risk for gout should limit their intake of these vegetables. Spinach is rich in iron, which is essential for red blood cell formation. However, it also contains high levels of purines, which can trigger gout. There are about 57 milligrams of purines in 100 grams of spinach.

Broccoli, which is high in vitamins C and K, also contains relatively high purine levels, about 81 milligrams. It’s not about avoiding these healthy vegetables altogether but controlling their portions.

2. Raisins

Often used as a topping for sweet dishes, raisins add a fresh and unique flavor when used correctly. They contain many nutrients, including potassium, iron, and vitamin B. However, raisins also have high purine levels, up to 107 milligrams per 100 grams.

3. Shrimps

Consuming shrimp excessively can worsen gout conditions. There are over 140 milligrams of purines in 100 grams of shrimp. Although shrimp provides beneficial nutrients like amino acids, moderation is key.

4. Clams and Oysters

Some people enjoy clams for their high vitamin B12 content, which benefits the body. However, clams also contain at least 136 milligrams of purines per 100 grams. Oysters, another trigger for gout, contain around 90 milligrams of purines per 100 grams. Controlled consumption can provide benefits like zinc, selenium, and iron.

5. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are known as healthy foods that benefit the body. They generally contain about 58 milligrams of purines per 100 grams. Mushrooms offer health benefits when consumed properly, including beta-glucan, selenium, and vitamin D. They can also replace animal protein with lower calories.

6. Fast Food

Besides tasting good, fast food offers few benefits and poses numerous health risks, including gout. Regular consumption is not recommended.

7. Duck and Chicken Meat

Duck and chicken are commonly found and easy to prepare, offering delicious flavors. However, they can cause gout if consumed excessively. Duck contains 138 milligrams of purines per 100 grams, whole chicken contains at least 170 milligrams per 100 grams. While both are nutritious, consumption should be in moderation to avoid the adverse effects of purines.

8. Beef

Close to Eid al-Adha 2024, which has just passed as this article is written, the aroma of beef and goat dishes is still filling your home. While delicious and nutritious, beef contains high fat and essential nutrients. Gout sufferers should limit their beef intake as it contains 133 milligrams of purines per 100 grams. This doesn't include other ingredients added during cooking.

Handle with Caution: Easy Ways to Reduce the Risk

Knowing the foods that cause gout is essential, but so is understanding how to reduce the risk of this disease. Here are some simple steps to follow:

Reduce High-Purine Foods: Refer to the list above and consult a doctor or nutritionist for more information.
Take Prescribed Medications: If you have consulted a doctor, take the medications they prescribe.
Consume Vitamin C: Vitamin C can help lower uric acid levels in the blood. Natural sources are preferred, but supplements recommended by a doctor can also be used.
Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise can help lower uric acid levels. If experiencing symptoms, rest as exercise can worsen joint conditions.
Drink Plenty of Water: Increasing water intake can help reduce swelling.
Avoid Stress: Managing stress can prevent chronic diseases, including gout.

Also Read: Beware of Singapore flu in Children: Symptoms and Prevention

Understanding the foods that cause gout can help you prevent this disease. Adopt a healthy lifestyle and prepare for the worst by having reliable insurance. SmartMedicare Domestic by PT AXA Insurance Indonesia is a suitable product to help you prepare for the worst conditions. Offering optimal benefits in treating various diseases, this insurance makes the recovery process more manageable. Adopt a healthy lifestyle and avoid various health risks with PT AXA Insurance Indonesia!

Referensi:

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