Gout is a painful form of arthritis that often occurs in the big toe joint (but can occur anywhere in the body). Its symptoms are brought on by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Those high levels cause crystals to form that then accumulate in and around a joint in your parent’s body.

If your parent has a history of gout, following a strict gout diet may help his body decrease the uric acid levels in his blood. Uric acid is what is produced when the body breaks down a chemical called purine. While purine occurs naturally in the body, it’s also found in certain foods.

The next time your parent goes grocery shopping with his home care provider, give them this list of foods to say YES to and foods to say NO to.

Say YES to these foods and beverages:

• Cherries – Cherries can help reduce gout attacks by lowering uric acid levels and reducing inflammation in areas affected by gout. Fresh is always best. Having your home care provider clean and then put a bowl of fresh cherries on the table will provide a delicious, healthy snack for your parent.
• Coffee – Some research suggests that drinking regular caffeinated coffee in moderation, may be associated with a reduced risk of gout. If there are no other health concerns about coffee drinking (such as high blood pressure), then go ahead and let your parent enjoy some coffee when he’s craving it, just avoid having him add a lot of sweeteners to his coffee.
• Food rich in Vitamin C – Any of the fruits and vegetables high in Vitamin C will help lower uric acid levels. Your parent could also take a daily supplement to boost his Vitamin C levels.

Say NO to these foods and beverages:

• Organ and glandular meat – These types of meat are high in purine levels and will contribute to high blood levels of uric acid. Liver, kidneys, and sweetbreads should all be avoided.
• Red meat – While an occasional meal with red meat is okay, have your parent try to get his protein from lean meats such as chicken breasts and pork.
• Beer – The yeast in beer (and other distilled liquors) is not good for someone prone to attacks of gout since it has been linked to bring on gout. A glass of wine should be just fine for daily consumption when there is not a flare up, but have your parent avoid all alcohol during a flare-up.
• Sugary Beverages – Juices high in sugar, as well as sugary sodas, are not good for your parent and should be limited.
• Seafood – While eating seafood can be a part of a healthy diet, help your parent choose seafood that doesn’t increase his risk for gout by choosing fish that are low in purines. Fish to avoid are shellfish, anchovies, sardines and tuna.
• Sweets – A little sweet treat here and there will not cause any harm, but help your parent avoid a diet that is high in sugary treats like donuts, candy, and sweetened cereals. Have him reach for fresh fruit when he needs a little dessert to his meal or snack to hold him over to the next meal.

Your parent may still need medication to treat his gout, but a diet rich in healthy foods that avoids triggering foods, will decrease the number of gout flare ups he has and reduce their intensity.

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Home Care in South Pasadena, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.