Gout is a painful form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms crystals around a joint. The body produces uric acid when it breaks down purine. Though purine occurs naturally in the body, one also acquires them from food. So, it’s important to cut back on foods that are high in purine and raise uric acid levels.

Below is a list of five foods that aggravate gout.

1. Red and organ meats
Both red meat and organ meats are loaded with purine. A diet rich in these foods can raise uric acid levels in the blood and increase the risk of gout and its flare-ups. Organ meats like liver, kidneys, brains, tripe, tongues, and sweetbreads are high in purine, so they should be eliminated from the diet. Keep consumption of other meats like pork, chicken, lamb, and turkey low. Since protein is crucial for the body, one can replace these foods with low-fat dairy products.

2. Seafood
Fish and many other types of seafood are also among foods that can make gout worse, as they are high in purine. These include seafood such as sardines, herring, anchovies, mackerel, oyster, lobster, crab, and shrimp. However, fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna, are full of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s have also been shown to improve symptoms of gout and reduce flare-ups, so avoiding them completely is not advisable. Experts recommend including small servings of fatty fish in the diet.

3. Sugary beverages and foods
Fruit juices and sodas are packed with high-fructose corn syrup, which can raise uric acid levels in the blood and increase the risk of gout. Energy drinks and sports drinks are also high in this type of sugar, so they must be avoided. It’s important to keep in mind that some fruits are naturally high in fructose. However, researchers are not sure if they trigger gout attacks. But health experts still recommend consuming only a single serving of fruit, preferably a small one.

4. Alcohol
Alcohol, particularly, beer contains high levels of purine and has been associated with gout. Hard liquor and other grain alcohols are also bad for people with the condition. Overconsumption of these drinks can increase the levels of uric acid in the blood, which can trigger gout attacks. Also, alcohol makes it harder for the kidneys to expel uric acid, aggravating symptoms.

5. Processed foods
Though processed foods themselves may not be high in purine, they are associated with an increased risk of diseases that can worsen gout, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Some studies also found that a diet high in processed foods increases the risk of developing gout. So, it can be helpful to reduce the consumption of highly processed foods like sweets, baked goods, ice cream, chips, and crackers. Eating less processed foods can also improve overall health, allowing an individual to manage the condition better.