When trying to treat gout, there are certain foods to avoid that are known to be gout causes. First, get to know the major factors that cause gout: purines, proteins and acids. Secondly, determine which sources carry these compounds so you know what food to avoid that cause gout.
Purines:
Purines can either naturally occur in the body or are acquired from food sources. When metabolized, purines turn into uric acid. They are frequently broken down in our bodies and while this happens, uric acid becomes its by-product.
Purines have benefits in the body because they protect our blood vessels. Higher levels of purines, though, could be detrimental. When there is too much purines acquired from food for example, uric levels rise considerably. The heightened levels produce build-up in the body, forming crystals in joints that cause pain, stiffening and inflammation. Build-up can also occur in other parts of our body such as the kidneys. Purines are not only found in meat or seafood, as commonly perceived, but also in plants. The only difference is that purines in vegetables are considered to be much safer than those in red meats and fish for instance. Purines can also be found in dairy products, but tend to be safer as well especially in low-fat protein sources. Research has shown that the way food is cooked may have an effect on purine levels but its relevance in preventing gout is yet to be concluded.
