About 1 million people living in Canada are affected by gout. As the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, men are up to four times more likely to be impacted by gout than women. Commonly found in toe joints, ankles and knees, gout flare-ups can cause excruciating pain and swelling, making it difficult to manage even the simplest of everyday tasks, and at times can leave people bedridden.
Managing gout requires some dietary considerations, but food restrictions don't have to dampen celebratory meals. This Father's Day weekend, plan a delicious gout-friendly BBQ you and your loved ones can enjoy.
Gout and Diet
If you have gout, avoiding purine-rich foods is essential to keeping uric acid levels in check. High uric acid levels in your blood increase the likelihood of a gout attack.
Some of the more common purine-rich foods include:
- Red meat
- Organ meats
- Shellfish
- Oily fish, like sardines and mackerel
- Foods that contain corn syrup (this could include processed sauces and drinks)
- Alcohol, especially beer and wine.
Your gout-friendly BBQ menu
Check out these 9 gout-friendly BBQ ideas that will keep you grilling all summer:
Mains
1. Chicken or turkey burgers: Swap the red meat with ground chicken or turkey — both delicious and fantastic low-purine alternatives to make burgers. Serve them on whole-grain buns with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles.
2. Portobello burgers: Portobello mushrooms are a great plant-based substitute for red meat that even meat lovers would savour. Marinate the portobello mushrooms with olive oil, garlic powder, and a bit of salt and pepper. After grilling them, serve on a bun with goat cheese or low-fat cheddar cheese, grilled onions and tomatoes.
3. Chickpea burgers: Chickpeas are a gout-friendly legume that can be used to make delicious burger patties. Mash the chickpeas with spices and breadcrumbs, add a bit of egg to hold the patty together and grill it to perfection. There is a trove of recipes on the internet that you can use to inspire you.
Sides
4. Whole wheat or chickpea pasta salad: Combine cooked wheat or chickpea pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and a light dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. Consider following our delicious and nutritious plant-based pasta salad recipe and Mediterranean orzo salad recipe.
5. Souvlaki paneer kebabs: There are conflicting messages about the role of cheese in inflammation, but if eaten in moderation (not more than 1 or 2 skewers each), these souvlaki paneer kebabs can be a nutritious and delicious addition as a side to your BBQ menu.
Dessert
6. Lime-whipped yogurt with berries: A perfect treat to end the feast! It is sweet, creamy and packs a crunch, thanks to the pistachios.
Mocktails and other drinks
Hydration is really important to help manage gout, but not all drinks are the same when it comes to uric acid and managing gout. Alcoholic drinks, especially beer and wine, are known to cause gout flares, and sugary drinks are best avoided altogether.
When picking out drinks for your gathering, try these mocktails instead.
7. Cherry mocktail: Spice up your BBQ with a mocktail by using dash of tart cherry juice, frozen cherries, mint and lime with carbonated water — you and your guests will not be able to resist this treat!
8. Non-alcoholic beer: If you enjoy the taste of beer, try one of the many available non-alcoholic versions. If you have concerns about alcohol consumption and how it may affect your health or gout symptoms, talk with your doctor.
9. Carbonated beverages: Instead of pop, try mixing carbonated water with natural flavours, such as mint, lemon or lime juice. Some carbonated water is already flavoured — just be sure to check the label to make sure there is no added sugar.
As you adapt your diet to improve your health and well-being, remember that food can be delicious and festive while also being gout friendly. For more arthritis-friendly recipe ideas, please visit arthritis.ca/flourish.
This article should not be substituted for professional medical advice. Individual dietary needs can vary greatly, and foods that suit one individual in managing gout may not be appropriate for another. Please consult with your healthcare provider to address your health needs and conditions.