Hey Nation,

I woke up one day with a painfully swolllen foot and ankle. I couldn't get my shoe on so I wore winter boots to work and toughed it out. Saw the doctor and the diagnosis was gout.

$$*&%$& GOUT!

It's ridiculous. I'm not even 40 yet.

At any rate, the doctor told me that large amounts of protein would cause uric acid to build up to gout-inducing levels. I eat tons of protein.

I know we have a lot of knowledge here at SHF and I'd like to see if anyone knows of protein sources that will support lean gains, but do not cause uric acid buildup in the bloodstream. Does anyone have any ideas?

coffee and vitamin C apparently help, as well as any anti-inflammatory foods, so I'm adding those to my diet as well.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Sir Limpsalot

Nathan,

This is a potential issue anyone on a high protein diet could face. Some are more susceptible than others as it depends on how their liver processes proteins. I am assuming you have no liver issues and are not a heavy consumer of alcohol because if this is not the case this will exacerbate uric acid levels in the blood. One important thing, if you are not already aware, is to stay hydrated. Uric acid levels get elevated when you are not hydrated enough and can lead to not only gout but also kidney stones - which are much more painful. Are you making sure to drink lots of water? You may be someone who has to drink more than the "average" person.

Unfortunately, uric acid is a direct bi-product of protein metabolism so there are no protein sources that will not cause and increase in uric acid. The liver and kidneys are responsible for removing this from the blood. This is why hydration is key. I know when I fast and prepare for a physical with my GP, my urine sample is always high in uric acid because I am not fully hydrated and i give the sample first thing in the morning after I wake up.

As for inflammation, Omega 3 fatty acids are the best since they are anti-inflammatory. They are high in oily fish (salmon, tuna) and nuts. You can also eat cherries as they contain a flavonoid called Quercetin which is as powerful as NSAIDs for relieving inflammation. Of course drug companies like Merck and Pfizer don't want you to know that :-)

John

John covered the most part but i will add some points

High uric acid level can be reduced with some changes in diet like

1) High fibre foods: They help absorb uric acid in your bloodstream, allowing it to be eliminated from your body through your kidneys. Increase the consumption of dietary soluble fibres such as Isabgol, Oats, Spinach, Broccoli to name few.

2) Take Healthy dose of Vitamin C

3) Avoid Bakery Products like cakes, pastries, cookies and other sugary delights which are rich in saturated fats and trans fats.

4) Anti-Oxidant Rich foods: Fruits and vegetables such as red bell peppers, tomatoes, blueberries, broccoli and grapes are rich sources of antioxidant vitamins. Antioxidants which are vitamins that prevent free radical molecules from attacking your organ and muscle tissue cells may help lower uric acid levels.

5) Drink Plenlty of Water

6) Limit meat, poultry and fish - animal proteins are high in purine and this will result in high uric acid levels in the body

7) Avoid Processed foods and softdrinks as they contain high fructose corn syrups which is a type of sweetener that can elevate your levels of triglyceride and uric acid

8) Avoid Alcohol as it interferes with the elimination of uric acid from your body

9) Also drink Green Tea

Hope it helps

Good points Nipun :-)

John

Omega 3, as stated are essential natural nutirents for anti-inflammation. About 5000mg/day. Also Vit. D is important for inflammation as well. About 50000 IU per week, not per day. Great info. guys.

Thanks a lot guys, that gives me a lot to try out. I've read that dairy products can help, so switching to more dairy-based protein may be a good idea?

Also, I probably drink more beer than a healthy person ought to, so eliminating that would probably help a lot.

I will try those suggestions while keeping my protein levels around 200 G/day and see where that leads.

Kidney stones do not sound like any fun whatsoever! I will be sure to flood my body with water!

I really appreciate the help, and the time you guys have taken to respond!

Nathan