7 Foods to Control Uric Acid: The Gout Diet Traffic Light List

Gout sufferers know how important it is to control uric acid. This article offers a simple "traffic light" guide to help manage your diet effectively. Gout, a painful type of arthritis, results from excess uric acid in the body. When purines are broken down, uric acid is produced. Foods high in purines can exacerbate the problem. So, how can we combat this? Let’s dive in.

Stop and Limit: The No-Go Foods

Picture your diet as a traffic light. Main keyword should guide your choices. Red foods signal a stop. They are high in purines and could boost uric acid. Such foods include organ meats like liver and kidneys, red meats, shellfish, and high fructose corn syrup. Alcohol, especially beer, falls into this category too (PubMed).  *Uric acid control, foods to avoid*

Use Caution: Moderation is Key

Yellow means caution—these foods are okay in moderation. Poultry, certain fish like tuna and salmon, and seafood fit the bill. Opt for low-fat or non-fat dairy to reduce fat intake. Remember, moderation is your ally here. The essence of this list is pragmatism; align it with your routine.

Go Green: Eat Freely and Safely

Green stands for go. Foods low in purines are safe for gout patients. Most vegetables, nuts, and fruits (those low in fructose), along with whole grains, are included. Not only do they keep uric acid low, but they also contribute to your overall health with fibers, vitamins, and minerals. Consider these options your daily staples (PMID).  *Green foods for gout relief*

Balance Your Plate: Mix for Wellness

By categorizing foods this way, making smart choices becomes much easier. This approach not only aids in managing gout but also invokes the Chinese medicine philosophy of "pattern-based dietary therapy." It's about keeping balance and integrating traditional wisdom with modern health practices. [Explore Diet Therapy](/herbal-medicine/diet-therapy/) [Learn TCM Basics](/tcm-basics/) References [(PubMed Link)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov): Excessive purine consumption linked to increased uric acid levels. [(PMID Link)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov): Low-purine diet reduces gout symptoms. **One-click Self-Test**: If experiencing joint pain, stop consuming red foods immediately. **Quick Relief Combo**: If gout attacks, drink plenty of water and switch to green foods for relief.