Gout Care - What You Can Do

I studied gout in classes about anatomy and physiology. It was interesting in an intellectual way, and I could answer questions people asked me. Now, it's different. Not because *I* have it, but because my husband does.

When he was diagnosed, he was given a long list of "can'ts." This wouldn't be so bad, except that his cardiologist has given him *his* long list of "can'ts." Put them together and it makes a very long, very depressing list.

It doesn't have to be that way.

When dealing with something as painful as gout, avoiding a "next time" is important. However, there are differences of opinion as to how to accomplish this seeming miracle. Diet is the main focus, as what we eat is the predominant factor in predicting gout flare ups.

To go over this, let me explain a bit how gout happens. Your body's filtration system tries to neutralize toxins such as uric acid via the kidneys. Purines, a component of many proteins that you eat, cause uric acid production. If you eat enough of them, gout is inevitable.

Unfortunately, many medications also increase the risk for gout. Aspirin is a big contributor. If you take large amounts of it for heart disease, you've got a problem. Other medications can do the same thing.

Now, here's where the "cans" come in. You can eat protein. You can't eat a huge steak, and you really ought to limit the hot dogs, but you don't have to stop eating it all together. You *do* have to follow a few simple rules.

1) Know portion sizes; most of us eat way to much protein. A piece of meat (whatever source) should be about the same size in all areas as a deck of cards. If you have to, weigh it out.

2) Know the purine content: It's easy to say "never eat beef, pork or seafood again," but that isn't always the case. Certain cuts of beef and pork are lower in purine content than boneless/skinless chicken breast. Check the content of each component of your meal just like you would the calorie count (you do check that...right?) Vegetables also contain purines, and how they figure into the mix is not yet understood.

3) Know your medications: Sorry, but this is important. If you take a medication known to contribute to gout flare ups, talk to the prescribing doctor. If it's aspirin, you may be out of luck, but see the next "can" for help.

4) Eat those fruits: Tart cherries, strawberries and blueberries. In fact, any berry with pigment is going to be your friend. Eat them regularly and if you feel a flare up coming on, go hog wild. A few caveats to this "can." First, tart cherries. The ones in a cocktail glass are not going to help. The juice can be found in most health food stores and at Trader Joe's. Second. watch the sugar. High fructose corn syrup and other added sweeteners is not going to be your friend.

You can take charge of this problem and not let it take charge of you. A positive outlook and a few lifestyle changes could prevent the pain of gout from recurring.