Today, the term “gout” refers to a complex group of diseases occurring only in humans, which include:
- hyperuricemia (increased serum uric acid values);
- recurrent attacks of arthritis, induced by uric acid crystals;
- presence of accumulation of uric acid salts around the joints;
- kidney damage & kidney stones from uric acid.
“It is caused by overproduction or a malfunction in the clearance of uric acid from the kidneys,” explains Dr. Ervin, who visits the LifePLus Polyclinic in Tirana on a daily basis and provides specialist therapy for rheumatic and autoimmune diseases based on the most recent international protocols. Gout is an integral part of several diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Gout begins with intense pain (typically in the ankles), but it can also affect other joints and is accompanied by swelling, pain on the touch, local heat, and redness. “The patient can refer to similar attacks in the past”, explains Dr. Ervini.
The presence of uric acid crystals or tufts in the articular fluid confirms the diagnosis. Gout therapy can be managed in two ways: medicated or non-medicated. Dr. Ervin believes that educating patients through diet and lifestyle changes is equally as essential as pharmacological therapy. “Drug therapy takes on a specific importance in some special instances,” he explains. The following are some diets for those who have gout (podagral):
HYPERURICEMIA / GUT DIET
Gout attacks e can be prevented and avoided by eating a nutritious diet. “By avoiding or reducing the intake of foods high in purines, it is possible to reduce serial levels of urate and prevent gout episodes,” Dr. Ervini emphasizes. Purines are naturally occurring chemicals found in every cell of the body as well as in all foods. “They’re in the chemical structures of our DNA, as well as plant and animal genes,” he says. Some foods have high purine concentrations, and these foods are frequently strong in protein
DIET DURING A GUTTY ATTACK
- Drink 2-3 liters of fluids every day, half of which should be water.
- Stop using alcohol. If taking it is necessary, use red wine (approximately 200 cc/day);
- Consume foods with low (or moderate) purine levels.
- Use moderate amounts of protein where recommended: tofu, dairy products, eggs, peanut butter, etc.
- Use foods high in carbohydrates: bread, cereals, rice, vegetables and fruits;
- Limit fats and replace them with fish, chicken, etc.
DIET FOR CHRONIC GUT
- Drink 2-3 liters of fluids a day, half of which should be water;
- Continue to avoid or restrict alcohol usage. Red wine (200 cc/day) is advised.
- Use foods with moderate and low purine levels. Avoid purine-rich meals.
- Maintain consistent and healthy body weight.
- Do not gain weight since being overweight promotes uric acid production. If you need to lose weight, you should aim to lose 0.5-1 kg every week.
- Avoid high protein diets, as they aggravate gout.
A GLUCOSE DIET MODEL
- Breakfast: oranges, peaches, apples, mangoes, figs, whole wheat bread, buttermilk;
- Lunch: celery, beets, lentils, turnips, cabbage, tomatoes, carrots, squash, potatoes, whole wheat bread, buttermilk, homemade cheese;
- Dinner: beans, cabbage, tomatoes, carrots, wheat bread, buttermilk.