Gout, also known as uric acid disease, is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This condition often triggers sudden, intense pain—especially at night—accompanied by swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint. The big toe is the most common location, but gout can also attack the ankles, knees, hands, and wrists. A flare can last for days to weeks and may recur frequently if not managed properly.
To help prevent recurrent attacks and maintain stable uric acid levels, gout patients must avoid several types of foods and drinks. These restrictions are important because certain ingredients can either increase uric acid production or hinder its elimination from the body. This article discusses the five key foods and beverages you should avoid to keep gout symptoms under control.
Contents
Foods and Drinks to Avoid for Gout
1. Organ Meats
Organ meats such as liver, sweetbreads, kidneys, brain, and tongue contain extremely high levels of purines and should be completely avoided by anyone with gout. Other types of meat should be limited to no more than 4 ounces per day.
2. Fish and Other Seafood
Fish and seafood are also rich in purines. Some of the highest-risk options for gout patients include scallops, sardines, herring, anchovies, and mackerel. Other seafood—such as oysters, lobster, crab, and shrimp—should also be consumed sparingly because of their high purine content.
3. Sugar
Although sugar is low in purines, consuming excessive refined sugar can worsen conditions like obesity and diabetes, which in turn can aggravate gout symptoms. Avoid sodas and sweetened beverages containing high-fructose corn syrup, as they can increase uric acid levels.
If you need something sweet, opt for fresh fruits. Even though they contain natural sugars, they also provide essential nutrients your body needs.
4. Alcohol
Beer contains purines, especially because brewer’s yeast is extremely high in purine content. Studies show that drinking beer during a gout attack can significantly worsen symptoms.
Other alcoholic beverages may contain fewer purines, but they can still stimulate purine production in the body, leading to higher uric acid levels. Excessive alcohol consumption (more than two drinks a day for men or one drink for women) increases the risk of gout flare-ups.
5. Processed Foods
Highly processed foods that are high in sodium and trans fats can increase inflammation and put stress on the kidneys. Although processed foods do not directly raise uric acid levels, they may worsen other health issues that contribute to gout or kidney problems.
Avoid fast food, packaged snacks, frozen meals, and anything high in salt, unhealthy fats, or added sugar.
Consult Your Gout Condition With Specialists at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
If you frequently experience joint pain, swelling, or unstable uric acid levels, don’t let the condition affect your quality of life. Early and proper treatment can prevent serious complications, including permanent joint damage. At Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, you can consult directly with internal medicine specialists and rheumatology subspecialists who are experienced in diagnosing and treating gout.
1. dr. R. Gantira Wijayakusumah Danasasmita, Sp.PD, Subsp.R(K)
Dr. Gantira is an internal medicine specialist who manages a wide range of medical conditions, including hypertension, digestive disorders, dengue fever, liver dysfunction, and rheumatologic issues such as early detection of autoimmune diseases. With deep expertise in rheumatology, he treats various autoimmune disorders, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis, and joint problems involving the knees, hips, and fingers.
He completed his medical degree at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani (UNJANI), followed by a residency in Internal Medicine at Universitas Indonesia. He later pursued subspecialty training in Rheumatology at the same institution.
Clinic hours at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri:
- Tuesday: 15.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Friday: 10.00 – 13.00 WIB
- Saturday: 15.00 – 18.00 WIB
2. dr. Nancy Indah Lestari, Sp.PD
Dr. Nancy Indah Lestari, Sp.PD is an internal medicine specialist who treats various medical conditions affecting the body’s internal organs, including metabolic disorders, infections, digestive problems, and chronic diseases. With a detailed and comprehensive approach, she is committed to delivering safe, accurate, and patient-centered care.
She completed her medical degree at Atma Jaya University, followed by her Internal Medicine training at Sam Ratulangi University.
Clinic hours at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri:
- Monday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Tuesday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Wednesday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Thursday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Friday: 08.00 – 18.00 WIB
- Saturday: 08.00 – 17.00 WIB
With thorough assessments, lifestyle guidance, and personalized treatment plans, our doctors are ready to help you manage uric acid levels and reduce gout symptoms effectively. Don’t wait—schedule your consultation at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free joints.
For an easier visit, use our WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment service, or download the Care Dokter app on Google Play or the App Store to check queue numbers and access complete information.
