Diet for high uric acid: Focus shifts to healthy diets

Patients with high uric acid levels were earlier advised by their doctors to avoid eating foods high in purine. By itself, it has not been shown to be very helpful; hence, this approach is changing.  The focus is shifting to following a healthy diet instead of making a list of foods to be avoided along with maintaining a healthy body weight. Losing weight can lower uric acid levels.

·         Drink plenty of fluids but limit intake of sweetened drinks and alcohol, which can increase uric acid levels.

·         A healthy diet emphasizes plant-based foods, such as vegetables, fruits and legumes. Whole grains are preferred over processed grains. Reduce intake of fat, especially saturated fat (found in red meat). Lean sources of protein, including chicken, turkey, fish and tofu, are better choices than beef or pork.

·         A study published in 2016 in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology in 2016 found that people who followed the DASH diet for 30 days lowered their uric acid levels 0.35 mg/dL on average. The higher the starting uric acid level, the greater the decline.

·         Fish are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which is healthy but some seafood also contains high amounts of purines. However, gout patients do not need to totally avoid eating fish. They should limit their intake of shellfish, sardines, and anchovies as they have the highest amounts of purines. They should instead choose flaky white fish, such as cod, tilapia, or flounder.

·         Consume low-fat dairy products. These products, which contain calcium, may help lessen gout attacks as well as protect your bones

·         Vitamin C may lower uric acid levels. Gout patients may add citrus fruits and other foods rich in vitamin C (such as strawberries and peppers) to their diet.

·         Eating cherries can reduce gout attacks and improve pain.

(Source: Harvard Health)

Dr KK Aggarwal

Padma Shri Awardee

President Elect Confederation of Medical Associations in Asia and Oceania   (CMAAO)

Group Editor-in-Chief IJCP Publications

President Heart Care Foundation of India

Past National President IMA