Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that can develop in those with high levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid forms needle-like crystals that can cause episodes of sudden and severe pain, warmth, redness, and swelling in a joint. You don’t need to give up good food just because you have been diagnosed with gout. While gout is a painful condition, you can manage it by opting for foods low in purine.
The following are some healthy snacks for gout that you can easily enjoy at home:
1. Fresh fruits
Having fresh fruits is a smart choice and one of the best healthy snacks for gout. Ideally, doctors recommend bananas as they can convert uric acid to a form that can be easily filtered by the kidneys. Other types of fresh fruits are great as well, including peaches, apples, cherries, pears, and blueberries. You should aim for at least two servings of fresh fruit each day. If you prefer, you can have 100% fresh fruit juices instead, but fresh fruit is a better option.
2. Raw vegetables
Raw vegetables are great additions to your gout diet because they are healthy snacks for gout. For instance, when you are hungry in the evening, you can cut up a carrot and eat it without the fear of your gout symptoms worsening. If you think eating vegetables raw is a problem, you can have raw vegetables with a dip. Doctors recommend at least three portions of raw vegetables every day, but it is best to avoid having them with a dressing.
3. Nuts
Nuts are healthy and tasty, plus they make amazing healthy snacks for gout. When your hunger pangs are getting out of control, you can opt for nuts instead of anything sugary that can trigger an attack. All types of nuts are good, including walnuts and almonds. Since nuts provide a good source of protein, they are excellent if you have gout. You can also choose to have nut butter instead; spread it on toast or whole-grain bread slices and enjoy a healthy snack.
4. Low-fat yogurt
Low-fat yogurt is great to deal with afternoon cravings and is one of the best healthy snacks for gout. It is safe to consume 8 ounces of yogurt daily, and plain, low-fat yogurt is better than the flavored low-fat yogurt options. The reason you should avoid flavored yogurt is that it can worsen flare-ups. Stick to plain low-fat yogurt as a snack once or twice a day.
5. Crackers
Crackers are made of whole grain, which is what makes them one of the most healthy snacks for gout. You can have crackers whenever you are feeling hungry in-between meals without worries of triggering or worsening flare-ups. Since they are light, you can have them and other whole-grain foods like cereals and bread to satiate hunger pangs.
You should consult a doctor when thinking of having healthy snacks for gout to be on the safe side, especially if you suffer from other major health problems or are on medication. Your doctor can help you create a plan tailored to your needs and health condition.
