Food consumed can contribute to the severity of gout. Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. While there is no regimented gout diet, some foods are known to increase attacks and should be avoided. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gout-diet/HQ00765 This guide page provides information on gout diet foods to avoid and foods to increase.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are about to embark on a gout diet, please consult your doctor.

Individuals having a gout attack understand the severity of pain it can create. Unfortunately gout attacks are often repeat events which leave a person wondering how to prevent more. Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood level. Uric acid if formed by the breakdown of purines. Avoiding foods high in purines, is the key to a successful Gout Diet.

Length of Diet: Implemented at first sign of Gout and maintained until attack subsides. Maintain healthy balanced diet to prevent future flares. Continued reduction of the high purine foods and increase in dairy products can prevent future attacks. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gout/DS00090/DSECTION=prevention

Foods to Reduce Gout Increasing water intake helps to lower the uric acid level. Increasing low fat dairy as well as fruits and vegetables is helpful during an attack.http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/eating-plan-for-gout

Prohibited Foods: Beer and other alcohols increase risk of gout. Beer contains the highest purine level of alcohols and just 2 beer a week increases risk for Gout attack by 25%. Reduce other high purine foods to preclude Gout attacks. High Purine foods include: Red Meats, Seafood, Organ Meats (liver, kidney etc) http://arthritis.webmd.com/news/20040415/beer-spirits-increase-gout-risk

Skim Milk and Water: Recent studies indicate dehydration is a trigger for Gout. Studies showed flares of Gout were reduced by 40% in individuals who had five to eight glasses of water the previous day. Additional research into the milk impact on Gout sufferers was conducted by University of Auckland rheumatologist Nicola Dalbeth, MD. Findings showed drinking soy milk raised the uric acid levels by 10% while drinking skim milk lowered the acid levels by 10%. This study will continue further but initial indications show adding skim milk to a Gout Diet could be useful for reduction in flares.