Gout is a disease where there is high uric acid level in blood and it gets accumulated and forms crystals in the smaller joints like toes and fingers and causes pain. 

Gout can be managed through diet and can lower the risk of painful gout attacks and help decrease the levels of uric acid in blood. 

By avoiding certain foods high in a compound called purines, the uric acid levels in blood can be controlled. Here are some guidelines to reduce the risk of the disease.

Optimum body weight- By maintaining an optimum weight, the stress on the joints is reduced and also the risk of developing gout. When overweight, avoid drastic weight loss as it will lead to breakdown of muscles which in turn will increase the uric acid in the body. It is best to stick to a gradual weight loss program. 

Complex carbs will help maintain an optimum weight. These can be obtained from whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Foods with high fructose sugars like soft drinks need to be avoided as it increases the risk of high uric acid levels in the body.

Proteins- Limit the protein intake per day to 0.8 to 1.0 gms/kg of body weight. Avoid foods which are high in protein like red meats, few sea foods, organ meats, some beans, and vegetables like cauliflower, peas, spinach which are also high in purines.

Fats-Saturated fats need to be cut down as it will increase the risk of weight gain.

Water consumption- Keep yourself well hydrated as water dilutes the uric acid levels in blood and helps stimulate kidneys to eliminate waste materials out of the body. This will help in reducing the gout attacks. 

Alcohol consumption- This needs to be cut down as it causes dehydration in the body which will make it difficult to eliminate the uric acid through kidneys. 

Foods reducing inflammation-Intake of cherries, strawberries, blueberries will help reduce the uric acid concentration. Pineapple has a digestive enzyme called Bromelain which can help reduce the inflammation as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Celery also helps reduce inflammation and has natural anti diuretic properties. 

Acidic levels- High acid levels in the body will increase the risk of high uric acid levels. To keep the body alkaline, add foods like apple, cherry juice, baking soda and lemons in the diet. Vitamin C will also help lower the uric acid levels. 

A gout friendly diet can help reduce the symptoms and frequency of gout attacks. But to cure and to lower the levels of uric acid in the body, it is important to consult a Physician so that the immediate line of treatment can be decided and started on time.