Gout

What is it?

Gout is an inflammation, swelling and redness of one or more joints and appears suddenly. Gout is very painful and can last for days. An attack often involves the big toe joint and can happen overnight.

What causes it?

Gout is diagnosed when uric acid in the blood crystallises as urate in joints. This causes the inflammation and therefore the pain. A hereditary factor is involved. Diuretics, alcohol, dehydration and diet may cause higher uric acid levels in the blood and increase the risk of an attack.

Dietetic treatment

The key to treatment is to avoid alcohol and have small amounts of purine containing foods. Purines are found mostly in meats and meat products. Higher amounts are found in innards (liver, kidney, heart) than in flesh meats. High intake of purine containing foods can result in high uric acid levels in the blood. Smaller portion size is important in maintaining a lower level of uric acid in the blood to avoid crystallisation in joints. Anti-inflammatory and/or pain medication can help in an acute attack.