A low-purine diet is designed to help manage hyperuricemia and its complications, such as gout. But the diet is also a reasonable lifestyle to adopt for general health. It reduces sugar, alcohol and meat and emphasizes plants and alternative sources of protein.

PURINE RESTRICTED DIET (For Patients with Gout) 1. Reduce intake of meats and seafood. Limit to 4-6 oz. daily. 2. Avoid shellfish (shrimp, clams, crab, lobster, mussels, scallops), sardines, mackerel, anchovies, herring, meat broth, large amounts of meat, organ meats (brain, kidney, liver, sweetbreads, tongue). 3.

While you should always discuss the merits and drawbacks of specific foods with your doctor, use this shopping checklist as a general guide to food choices to improve your overall health, lower uric acid levels and reduce your risk of painful gout attacks.

Eat foods on the low purine list daily. Eat only moderate amounts of protein (no more than 4-6 ounces per day). Eat less meat, fish and poultry. Other good protein sources are tofu and low fat milk products, low fat peanut butter and eggs. Emphasize whole grains.

Skip foods and drinks that are high in purines to help lower your chances of an attack. You should stay away from these types of food: Beer and grain liquors (like vodka and whiskey)

Some dietitians recommend creating a gout and lifestyle diary foods that may trigger an attack. Work with your physician or healthcare professional on an eating plan appropriate for you. Fructose is a naturally occurring simple sugar found in fruit, vegetables and honey.