Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (221 page)

Action plan

Gout is very much affected by diet, so the following guidelines should help.

EAT/DRINK

At least eight glasses of water a day. This is necessary for ensuring proper elimination through the kidneys and bladder.

Vegetable juices. Gout indicates that the body is in an acidic state (see acid–alkaline balance, page
169
). Vegetable juices are a great way to alkalize the body. They are also rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants.

Raw fruits and vegetables. Gout is often a sign of too much rich food and insufficient fruits and vegetables. Include something green every day; green foods contain chlorophyll, which can aid cleansing of the tissues, and magnesium, which can alkalize the tissues.

Fresh pineapple. The core of raw pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, which has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Cherries and strawberries. These can help to neutralize uric acid.

Adzuki beans are useful for reducing the swelling and heat of gout.

Sprinkle celery seeds onto your salads. These are great for aiding kidney function.

Artichokes are a powerful food for the liver.

Sprinkle flax seeds on salads for omega-3 essential fatty acids, which will help to reduce inflammation.

AVOID

Diets high in red meat and processed meats have been shown to increase the risk of developing gout. These foods are high in prurines, which can increase the buildup of uric acid in the blood. When there is more uric acid in the body than the kidneys can filter, crystals of uric acid may be deposited in the joints, leading to gout.