How to lose weight was the recent topics in the news regarding diet and it contained both helpful and misinformation. During this “diet season” the Internet is filled with advice. One concept being touted right now is that the very effective low carbohydrate diet program causes gout. In most cases this is not the case. Gout is a metabolic disorder and a form of inflammation, which occurs when levels of uric acid build up in the body and eventually deposit as crystals in select joints, often causing debilitating pain and inflammation. The most common site for gout to occur is in the feet, specifically in the joint of the big toe. Other areas of attack can include the ankle, elbow and wrist joints. Gout occurs most often for the first time, between the ages of 30 and 50. It occurs most frequently in males.
As uric acid levels rise, crystals form that resemble sharp needles, which literally impale the joint and cause acute pain and inflammation. The low carbohydrate, higher protein diet has been implicated as a negative factor to gout. In general, this is not the case with a few specific exceptions. If the body is functioning properly and has the right nutrients present, protein is not going to be a factor. There are some foods that you should avoid if you are a gout sufferer: Anchovies, herring, sardines, mushrooms, asparagus, peas and beans, mussels, organ meats, and broths.
Alcohol to excess should also be avoided as it increases the production of uric acid and interferes with its elimination.
By implementing these simple procedures, you can help your body to better manage uric acid production and elimination while consuming the diet plan that’s right for your body type. Check back next week for more information about the inflammation free diet.