12 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Manage Gout Flareups
Gout attacks occur when uric acid levels in the blood are high, leading to swelling, inflammation, and intense pain. A healthy diet can decrease the uric acid levels in the blood and lower the risk of recurring attacks. Here is a list of 12 anti-inflammatory foods for gout.
1. Cherries
Cherries find their place in the list of anti-inflammatory foods for gout since they contain anthocyanins, a plant pigment that helps lower uric acid levels. Consuming one cup of cherries per day or drinking cherry juice can reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps in reducing inflammation and pain. Thus, eating half a cup of pineapple every day can help lower the risk of gout attacks.
3. Berries
Strawberries and blueberries are enriched with properties that reduce inflammation. So including these items in one’s everyday diet is a great way to prevent high uric acid levels in the blood.
4. Low-fat dairy products
Low-fat or non-fat dairy products are not only good sources of protein but are also effective in lowering overall uric acid levels. One can go for low-fat milk, yogurt, or cottage cheese, which will help in lowering the gout attack risk.
5. Omega-3 fatty acids
Salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, walnuts, and flaxseeds are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids help reduce swelling and inflammation.
6. Vitamin C
Vitamin C enriched foods are also anti-inflammatory foods for gout. One should include oranges, broccoli, red peppers, lemon, grapefruit, spinach, and kale in their diet. Studies show that vitamin C can help maintain uric acid levels by increasing the pH of urine and flushing it out of the body.
7. Celery seeds
Celery is another gout-fighting food. It contains various nutrients that help reduce uric acid levels in the blood, preventing gout attacks. One can add celery seeds to their diet in any form, whether seed, extract, or juice.
8. Coffee
Drinking coffee in moderation, one or two cups a day, can help reduce the risk of gout attacks. Coffee helps in lowering uric acid and also improves the excretion of uric acid from the body.
9. Ginger
Ginger also has anti-inflammatory effects and helps reduce inflammation and swelling. Drinking three cups of ginger tea per day will help provide relief from gout.
10. Beans
Beans are rich in folic acid and are also an excellent source of protein. Including red, kidney, and pinto beans will help lower uric acid in the body.
11. Olive oil
The least refined type, extra virgin oil, contains active compounds such as oleocanthal, oleuropein, and lignans that help reduce joint inflammation and pain.
12. Whole grains
Whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, and bran contain moderate amounts of purines, which helps in lowering uric acid levels in the blood. One should increase the consumption of these high-fiber foods to reduce the risk of gout attacks.
Certain foods and drinks trigger gout attacks, and it is best to avoid them. On the other hand, the anti-inflammatory foods for gout mentioned in this article can manage symptoms.