Important: this page is general educational information, not medical advice.
If you think you have gout, or want to change your diet, talk to your doctor or a registered
dietitian.
What is gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid forms when your body breaks down purines — natural compounds found in many foods and drinks. When levels get high, sharp urate crystals can form in a joint, most often the big toe, causing sudden, intense pain, swelling, and redness.
Some people have a genetic tendency; others are affected by diet, alcohol, dehydration, some medications, or kidney function. An attack can last a few days to a couple of weeks.
How diet factors in
Diet is only part of the picture, but it's a part you control. Foods very high in purines raise uric acid the most. The general guidance is:
Avoid — very high purine
- Organ meats: liver, kidney, sweetbreads
- Red meat and game meat in large amounts
- Sardines, anchovies, mackerel, herring
- Shellfish: mussels, scallops, shrimp, lobster
- Beer (especially) and other alcohol
- Sugar-sweetened drinks and high-fructose foods
Limit — moderate purine
- Poultry and some fish (salmon, tuna, trout)
- Dried beans, lentils, chickpeas, soy
- Oatmeal, asparagus, cauliflower, mushrooms
- Keep portions reasonable rather than cutting them out
Good choices
- Low-fat dairy — milk, yogurt, cheese (may lower uric acid)
- Eggs, nuts, whole grains, rice, pasta, bread
- Most fruits and vegetables, especially cherries and berries
- Lots of water — hydration helps flush uric acid
- Coffee and tea in moderation
Lifestyle tips
- Drink plenty of water every day.
- Limit alcohol, especially beer.
- Maintain a healthy weight; avoid crash dieting, which can trigger attacks.
- Limit sugar-sweetened drinks.
- If prescribed urate-lowering medication, take it consistently.
Disclaimer. GoutStopper is an educational tool that uses
AI to identify food in photos and compare it to a general list of foods often associated with
gout. It is not a diagnosis, not medical advice, and may make mistakes. Always consult a
qualified healthcare professional for personal medical guidance.