February 25, 2025 | 04:15 pm
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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Gout is a condition caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and inflammation. One of the main factors contributing to high uric acid levels in the body is an unhealthy diet.
Certain foods contain high levels of purines—compounds that break down into uric acid. Overconsumption of these foods can trigger gout attacks, especially in individuals with a history of the condition.
Foods That Can Trigger Gout
Maintaining a low-purine diet can help reduce uric acid levels in the body, preventing the formation of new crystals and lowering the frequency of gout attacks. According to Hermina Hospitals, purines are compounds that break down into uric acid in the body, making it necessary to limit their intake.
The following foods should be limited or avoided to manage gout effectively:
1. Red Meat
Red meat is a significant source of purines. This category includes beef, lamb, goat, buffalo, and horse meat. Poultry such as goose and duck also have relatively high purine levels and should be consumed in moderation by gout sufferers.
2. Organs or Innards
Animal organs like liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, spleen, brain, and intestines contain large amounts of purines. Limiting the intake of organ meats is crucial to preventing elevated uric acid levels.
3. Seafood
Certain types of seafood are high in purines. Shrimp, crab, mussels, oysters, and squid are among the foods that can increase the risk of gout. Additionally, processed seafood products such as sardines and canned fish contain high purine levels and should be consumed with caution.
4. Sugary Drinks and Candies
Consuming sugary drinks and candy can elevate the risk of gout due to their high fructose content. Table sugar consists of about 50% fructose, which breaks down into uric acid in the body. When uric acid levels in the blood rise, the likelihood of crystal formation in the joints increases, triggering gout attacks. Soft drinks, packaged juices with added sugar, sweetened tea, and energy drinks are some examples of products that should be avoided or reduced by those with gout.
5. Alcohol
Although not all alcoholic beverages contain high levels of purines, they can still significantly affect uric acid metabolism. Alcohol interferes with the kidneys’ ability to eliminate uric acid, causing it to be reabsorbed into the bloodstream instead of being excreted through urine. This leads to an increase in uric acid levels, which can trigger gout attacks, especially in individuals already suffering from the condition.
Beer and red wine, in particular, have higher purine content compared to other types of alcohol, making them more likely to exacerbate gout symptoms.
CLEVELAND CLINIC | ARTHRITISACRE
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