Gout is a type of arthritis which causes pain, tenderness, inflammation, and redness. It mostly affects the feet, but can affect other joints too and is more prevalent in men and in women postmenopause. Since there is no cure for gout, the main goal of people affected by the condition is to develop healthy eating habits, which should become a part of their lifestyle choice. Foods such as low-fat dairy, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts help reduce uric acid levels and also aid in maintaining a healthy heart.

Gout has been linked to an increase in the risk of heart problems, making a heart-healthy diet beneficial. People with a higher BMI are at higher risk of developing gout. Hence, weight control should be a priority. Research proves that reducing calorie intake and weight lowers uric acid levels in the body and decreases the number and frequency of gout attacks. Losing weight is beneficial to the joints as well, as it reduces the stress of body bodyweight on them.

In addition to the above, one must drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Drinking water helps to dilute and reduce the uric acid levels in the body. The following foods and nutrients are beneficial in controlling and reducing high uric acid levels in the body:

1. Complex carbohydrates
Eat more whole grains and avoid high gluten foods. Whole grains provide vitamin C, which can help to lower uric acid levels. Foods like kiwi, guava, oranges, lemon, tomatoes, and green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamin C and have great health benefits as well.

2. Apples
This fruit is enriched with malic acid, which neutralizes uric acid levels in the blood, giving relief to those prone to high uric acid levels.

3. Apple cider vinegar
Consuming apple cider vinegar is beneficial in reducing uric acid. Add 3 teaspoons of ACV to 1 glass of water to dilute it. You can have this 3-4 times a day.

4. French bean juice
French beans are very effective in controlling uric acid levels. Extract the juice of French beans and dilute with water as per your liking. Add minimal salt to it and consume this twice a day as part of your gout-friendly diet.

5. Fresh vegetable juices
Carrot juice, beetroot, and cucumber juice is an effective remedy for treating high uric acid in the body.

6. Lime
Lime juice contains citric acid which dissolves uric acid, thereby reducing the levels of the latter. It is beneficial to consume at least the juice of half a lime every day.

7. Cherries and berries
Both have anti-inflammatory properties because they contain anthocyanins which reduce the uric acid level. They prevent uric acid from crystallizing and getting deposited in the joints. Cherries also neutralize acids and help to prevent inflammation and pain.

8. Olive oil
Using olive oil to sauté and fry foods is recommended as this food item has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good option for gout patients.

Celery seed, bananas, pinto beans, flaxseeds, and walnuts are some of the other highly beneficial foods to reduce the uric acid level in the body.