Purine is a compound found in nucleic acids, heterocyclic compounds made of imidazole rings and pyrimidine. When purine is metabolized, it creates a crystalline compound including uric acid, caffeine and xanthine. It is this uric acid that is the cause of gout, a painful arthritic disease. Purines are found in many foods.
The Kidneys
The kidneys eliminate uric acid. The lack of that function or lessened function of the kidneys causes a build-up of uric acid from purine. It is the build-up of the purine which causes gout sufferers more pain and more gout symptoms.
Purine-Rich Foods
Gout caused by purine-rich foods is actually considered the most painful of the rheumatic conditions. Gout affects an estimated 5 percent of all arthritis cases. Some purine-rich foods include beer and other alcoholic beverages, anchovies, sardines in oil, fish roes, herring, yeast, organ meat, legumes, mushrooms, spinach and cauliflower.
Beneficial Food
There is food that is beneficial for those who suffer from gout. It is suggested to have a diet containing cherries, fresh cherry juice, any dark berries, flax or olive oil and fatty acids found in certain fish like salmon.
The AMA on Gout
The American Medical Association (AMA) identifies 4 distinct stages of gout: asymptomatic symptom; acute gouty arthritis; intercritical gout; and chronic tophaceous gout.
Controlling it
Purine-rich foods are only one part of the battle for people who suffer from gout. It is important to keep up with the medications prescribed by a doctor. Regular exercise and the intake of plenty of water also will help lower gout sufferings.
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