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As we age, our likelihood of developing various conditions tends to increase — and gout is no exception. Gout, a type of arthritis characterized by painful flare-up of the joints, is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals. While gout occurs most often in the joints of the big toe, it can affect any joint.
Despite the increased risk of developing this condition as you age, your dietary habits can play a significant role in helping to prevent gout. Here’s what you need to know (and eat!).
The body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines — substances found naturally in the body and that also occur in certain foods.
By lowering your intake of purine, you’re subsequently lowering production of uric acid. Here are a variety of foods that are part of a low-purine diet:
In general, eating a low-purine, balanced diet is the best way to manage your risk of gout.
In addition, achieving a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and regularly exercising are other ways to lower your likelihood of developing gout — and help you achieve a greater overall health status.
Kelley Cox, MS, RD, CSG is the director of Nutrition for Independence Village and StoryPoint. As part of the culinary team, Kelley ensures nutritional menu standards are met for all licensed neighborhoods and provides guidance to our chefs in developing healthy menu options for all residents.
Kelley holds a Bachelor of Science in dietetics and a Master of Science in human nutrition from Eastern Michigan University and has been a registered dietitian since 2010. She is a board-certified expert in gerontological nutrition.