Gout is a form of arthritis that causes inflammation, pain, redness, and discomfort in the joints. It is usually caused due to uric acid buildup and commonly affects the big toe joint. The affected area may feel warm and there can be sudden and intense pain. Timely treatment and the right diet may help alleviate pain and inflammation and keep the condition in check.

Apart from medication, you need to include gout-fighting foods to your diet to prevent the condition from worsening. One of the most important dietary tips for gout is to cut down on foods containing purine as they increase uric acid levels in the body. If you are looking for further dietary tips for gout, here are some simple and healthy food options.

Low-fat yogurt
According to experts, low-fat yogurt may help alleviate the risk and discomfort associated with gout. Make sure you opt for plain yogurt as the flavored ones contain sugar which adds calories. Sugar may also affect uric acid levels in the body and worsen the symptoms associated with gout.

Whole-grain toast and other carbohydrates
This is one of the most important dietary tips for gout. Experts recommend foods rich in carbohydrates for those suffering from gout as a high-carb diet helps flush out gout-causing uric acid from the body. Whole-grain toast, crackers, and non-sugary cereals are some healthy sources of carbs that you can add to your diet.

Nuts and seeds
A handful of low-purine nuts, such as almonds, walnuts and cashew nuts are recommended for those suffering from gout. Nuts contain protein, healthy fats, and nutrients that help support your overall health. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids that help combat gout-related pain and inflammation. When you are looking for dietary tips for gout, you cannot miss nuts and seeds.

Fresh fruits and vegetables
Almost all fruits and vegetables such as apples, pineapples, cherries, bananas, oranges, carrots, leafy greens, peas, and potatoes are safe for gout. So make sure you include plenty of fruits and vegetables to your diet to stave off hunger pangs. They are packed with important vitamins and minerals that are essential for your overall well-being. Baked potatoes, fruit salad, and spinach chips are some other tasty and healthy options.

Legumes
Legumes are packed with protein and important nutrients. All legumes, including beans, lentils, and soybean are safe for those suffering from gout. You can include baked beans with whole-grain bread or toast, soy milk, soy protein shakes, beans salad, and lentil soups and dips to your diet.

Tofu
As per experts, tofu is a safe option for gout patients. It is a rich source of protein and is low in purine. Avoid organ meats, fatty fish, shellfish, beef and pork as they are high in purine and may increase uric acid levels and symptoms of gout. Healthcare practitioners often recommend tofu for those who miss eating fish and meat. Baked tofu bites, tofu sandwiches, and pan-fried tofu are some simple and healthy snacks for those suffering from gout.

These simple snack ideas and dietary tips for gout may help alleviate symptoms of the condition and keep you healthy and active. While there is no particular diet plan that will prevent flare-ups completely, avoiding purine and adding more carbs, protein, and healthy fats to your diet can help.