“Suffering to the point of not wanting to live, coming and going like the wind,” this is the characteristic symptom of gout. Currently, it is widely recognized that hyperuricemia is one of the causes of gout. Uric acid is a metabolite of purine with no physiological function in the body. Normally, two-thirds of the uric acid produced in the body is excreted by the kidneys and one-third is excreted through the intestines. When there is a metabolic disorder in the body leading to an increase in uric acid synthesis or a decrease in excretion, it can cause hyperuricemia and subsequently trigger gout.
Multiple hospitals jointly urge: Avoid consuming these “3 items” regularly, as they only increase uric acid levels without reducing them.
Love for traditional slow-cooked soup
Traditional slow-cooked soup is considered nourishing, as the prolonged simmering process creates a milky white broth. People believe this is due to the nutrients from the bones being extracted. However, the milky white color of the soup is a result of emulsified fats rather than essential elements from the bones.
Bones naturally contain high levels of purines, which dissolve in water. Through the lengthy cooking process of traditional soup, these purines end up in the broth. Individuals with gout should avoid excessive consumption of traditional soup, as it may elevate uric acid levels in the body, affecting metabolism.
Fondness for consuming animal organ meats
There is a common belief that consuming corresponding animal organ meats can benefit a specific part of the body. However, consuming animal organ meats does not always ensure the intake of essential nutrients and can lead to an increase in uric acid levels in the body.
Animal organ meats are categorized as high-purine foods, with purine levels reaching 200mg/100g. Commonly consumed organ meats include pork liver, chicken hearts, lamb kidneys, intestines, brain, liver, etc. Individuals with gout should avoid consuming animal organ meats excessively, as it may raise uric acid levels and lead to gout, with severe cases potentially resulting in kidney failure.
Preference for sugary beverages
Common sugary beverages found in the market include fruit juices, colas, sodas, Yakult, and various other drinks high in fructose content. These beverages contain significant amounts of fructose, which can boost appetite without triggering the body’s satiety hormones like leptin and insulin. Consequently, consuming these drinks can lead to increased blood sugar levels, raising the risk of diabetes. Regular consumption of such beverages can promote uric acid production in the body. Individuals with gout should primarily drink plain water and avoid these beverages to prevent gout attacks.
What are the symptoms of a gout attack?
Joint pain
Elevated uric acid concentrations in the body can lead to hyperuricemia. Failure to stabilize uric acid levels below 420 can result in the accumulation of urate crystals in various joints, causing joint pain. During an attack, joints may exhibit symptoms like redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Frequent thirst
Malfunctioning kidneys due to high uric acid levels can lead to dehydration as the body’s urate salt concentration rises and nighttime fluid intake decreases, increasing the likelihood of feeling thirsty.
General weakness and fatigue
Damaged kidneys can cause a gradual decline in renal function, leading to a reduced ability to expel waste products and toxins from the body. This accumulation of waste can result in overall weakness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and a constant feeling of exhaustion. It’s crucial to manage uric acid levels to prevent other health issues.
Preventing gout through daily practices
1. Balanced nutrition through food
2. Regular exercise and adequate hydration
The best way to prevent illness is through regular exercise and proper hydration.
Regular physical activity supports overall health, boosts immunity, and enhances circulation, creating a more favorable metabolic environment in the body. Sweat helps eliminate uric acid from the body. Individuals with gout should avoid intense physical activities and engage in weekly aerobic exercises.
After physical activity, it’s essential to drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids and dilute uric acid concentrations in the body. Daily water intake should be around 2000ml, and individuals with gout can opt for alkaline beverages like plain water and baking soda water. Avoid substituting water with other drinks.
