Patient/caregiver was educated on food choices to be made with Gout as follows:
High omega-3 fatty acid foods:
- Omega-3 fatty acids are known to control inflammation and contribute to prevent exacerbation of joint pains in individuals with gouty arthritis.
- Fish and other seafood, in general, though high in omega-3 fatty acid content, also are rich in purine content and so, carry risk for exacerbation of gout in individuals with history.
- Salmon, catfish, tilapia, and flounder are low in purine content, in comparison to other fish and seafood products and so, can be consumed in moderation.
- Vegetable sources rich in omega-3 fatty acids include nuts & seeds, such as, almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds and individuals with history of gouty arthritis should increasingly prefer use of these nuts & seeds for improved control of joint inflammation.
Beverages:
- Alcohol, in general, causes inflammation in various body parts and also, impairs the ability of human body to regulate/control the inflammation.
- Also, inflammation worsens the harmful effects alcohol can have on various body parts. Thus, alcohol and inflammation mutually complement each other’s harmful effects on human body.
- Also, alcohol could interact with many medications individuals could be on and cause other side-effects. But, red wine is known to be rich in antioxidants, which destroy the chemicals causing the inflammation.
- A glass of red wine every day could contribute towards pain relief in individuals with gouty arthritis.
- Individuals with history of gouty arthritis must limit or observe moderation with consumption of alcoholic drinks, to help control/regulate joint inflammation.
- Check with your physician on your daily allowance for intake of alcoholic beverages.
- Also, green tea is known to benefit gouty arthritis patients by preventing the exacerbation of joint inflammation symptoms due to the rich antioxidant content.
