Food Menu for People with Gout

Gout is a condition characterized by the deposit of uric acid in the joints. People with gout may experience a sudden onset of arthritis-like symptoms, including swelling, redness and warmth in one or more joints. Although gout can be caused by a number of conditions, it is often exacerbated by the consumption of foods high in purine. Individuals who have been diagnosed with gout should incorporate low-fat dairy, fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains into their diets on a regular basis.

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Low-Fat Dairy Products

In "Nutrition Therapy and Pathophysiology," Marcia Nelms et al. report that low-fat dairy products can be beneficial for individuals who have been diagnosed with gout. In addition to reducing the pain and swelling associated with the condition, low-fat dairy products may prevent its development altogether. In fact, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports that in one study, men who consumed low-fat dairy on a regular basis cut their chance of developing gout by as much as 50 percent. Skim or low-fat milk is an excellent choice for those living with gout, and dairy products that are made from low-fat milk -- including mozzarella cheese and certain types of sorbet -- can also be helpful.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

People who have been diagnosed with gout should also include a wide array of fruits and vegetables in their diet, reports Nelms et al. A variety of produce can be safely incorporated into the diet of those living with gout, but fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin C -- such as peppers, cabbage, red potatoes and citrus fruits -- can be especially helpful. These foods likely aid in the management of gout by reducing the production of uric acid, a strong contributor to gout exacerbation, reports the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Consider fresh, not dried, fruits and vegetables to ensure optimal results in the management of this condition.

Whole Grains

Whole grains should also be part of the food menu for people with gout. As suggested by their name, whole grains are those that remain in their most natural form and have not been stripped of their germ and bran. Foods that are made from whole grains -- such as brown rice, whole oats or bulgur and millet -- are low in purines and high in fiber. According to Nelms et al. in "Nutrition Therapy and Pathophysiology," fiber aids in the treatment of gout by reducing triglyceride levels and assisting in the management of metabolic syndrome. Triglycerides and metabolic syndrome contribute to the develop of gout. Adult men and women should aim for 5- to 8-ounce equivalents of grains each day and consume at least half of those in the form of whole grains.

Eliminate Foods High in Purine

While incorporating certain foods into your diet is important in the management of gout, avoiding specific food products is also crucial. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases encourages all individuals who have been diagnosed with gout to avoid foods that are high in purines. Although purines can be found in a number of foods, they are most commonly associated with seafood and organ meats, including anchovies, sardines, beef kidneys and brains. Cutting out all alcohol intake is also essential for individuals who are living with gout.