Diet myths about gout run deep. It was once known as the “disease of kings” because people associated it with the rich diets of the wealthy — but if you’ve had gout, you know the experience isn’t so regal.
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The truth is much more complicated, however. Up to 4% of American adults have gout each year, and rising rates of obesity increase our risk. But don’t believe everything you hear when it comes to diet advice and gout. Diet matters — but not always in the way you think. Rheumatologist Scott Burg, DO, shares more insight into this common affliction.
Is Turkey Deli Meat Bad For Gout?
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in joints, often the joint at the base of the big toe. Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in your joint, causing the inflammation and intense pain of a gout attack.
Urate crystals form when you have high levels of uric acid in your blood. Your body produces uric acid when it breaks down purines, which are found in foods like red meats, organ meats seafood beans and high fructose foods and drinks.
Purine-rich foods like red meats and seafood have long been established as common triggers for gout flares. But what about turkey? Can turkey also trigger painful gout attacks?
Turkey and Gout
Turkey meat contains moderate amounts of purines. The white meat contains fewer purines than the dark meat. Turkey is considered a healthier protein source compared to red meats like beef and pork.
However, processed turkey meats like deli meat appear to pose more of a problem for gout sufferers. Deli meats like turkey contain preservatives called nitrates that have been associated with increased uric acid levels and higher gout risk.
One study found that men who consumed the most nitrates daily were 21% more likely to develop gout, compared to men who consumed the least nitrates.
The high salt content of processed deli meats may also contribute to gout flares. High sodium intake is linked with greater uric acid excretion, increased crystal formation in joints, and more frequent gout attacks.
Additionally, the purine content becomes concentrated during processing of deli turkey, which may heighten its ability to trigger gout attacks.
Dietary Recommendations for Gout
While fresh turkey meat in moderation may be fine for most gout sufferers, steering clear of processed turkey deli meats is recommended to reduce gout flare ups. Other high purine foods to limit include:
- Red meats like beef, lamb and pork
- Organ meats like liver and kidneys
- Seafood like anchovies, sardines, trout and tuna
- High fructose foods and sugary drinks
To prevent gout attacks, experts suggest eating a balanced diet focused on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water daily. Limit alcohol intake, especially beer. Maintain a healthy body weight and get regular exercise.
Consult your doctor for personalized dietary recommendations to keep gout flares at bay. With proper medication and lifestyle adjustments like a gout-friendly diet, it’s possible to successfully manage gout and reduce painful symptoms.
Should I avoid all rich foods?
No. “Patients often ask me about desserts, as well as entrees with rich sauces,” says Dr. Burg. It’s a common myth that these foods cause gout. When eaten in moderation, desserts and other rich foods do not affect gout flare-ups. But “moderation” is the key word. Rich foods might not cause flare-ups directly, but they can cause weight gain. And obesity is a major risk factor for gout attacks.
“At some point, the misconception spread that people with gout should avoid dairy. But in fact, certain dairy products — especially milk — can help you remove uric acid from your body,” Dr. Burg adds.
Can I still eat dairy with gout?
Yes. At some point, the misconception spread that people with gout should avoid dairy. But in fact, certain dairy products — especially milk — can help you remove uric acid from your body. In other words, dairy tends to help rather than hurt people with gout.
Deli Meat Dangers
FAQ
Does turkey meat increase uric acid?
What meat does not trigger gout?
Can I eat luncheon meat if I have gout?
Is mayonnaise good for gout?
Does turkey white meat cause gout?
The interplay between turkey white meat consumption and gout has spurred a contentious discourse within the health community. Despite turkey’s status as a lean protein, its purine content has raised eyebrows.
Does eating frozen meats cause gout?
Consuming frozen meats per se does not raise your chances of getting gout attacks. It is the type of meat that plays a more important role. Organ meats, game meats, and red meats, including beef, lamb, and pork, are more likely to cause an acute attack of gouty pain.
Is Turkey Turkey good for gout?
Turkey Turkey is pretty much everywhere in the world of sandwiches and deli meats, so it can be hard to avoid the temptation if you’re a fan. But unfortunately it comes with a enough purines to make it off limits for gout sufferers. It has a bit fewer purines than chicken, but they are still both higher than average.
Can processed meat cause gout?
Purines lead to uric acid, which causes the gout to reappear. Now, processed meats are associated with even more dangers. To most people, processed foods imply semi cooked foods. They can be finished in the microwave or the oven. Foods like ham or bacon are not always associated with processed meats, yet they belong to this category.