How can a gout patient go vegetarian?

26 Sep 2007, ST, Mind Your Body

How can a gout patient go vegetarian?

Q The many benefits of going vegetarian/vegan have been extolled in recent times, and from what I read and hear, many vegetarians switch to soy-based and/or nuts-based food as a source of protein.

For those suffering from gout, however, neither soy nor nuts are good alternatives as both exacerbate the pain experienced in one's joints. In this case, how can a vegetarian diet be achieved and still ensure sufficient protein?

AProteins are one of the most important nutrients required in suitable amounts for healthy growth and development of the body. Although plant proteins may not contain all the essential amino acids, a simple form of protein, a complete vegetarian diet with a variety of grains, beans and pulses can complement and make up for the specific amino acid deficiency.

For instance, grains are deficient in amino acid lysine whilst pulses are deficient in amino acid methionine and consuming both grains and pulses will make up for each other's deficiencies.

Since gout is a medical condition in which uric acid crystals get deposited in the joints causing inflammation and pain, in relation to dietary intake, foods that are rich in purines should be avoided - that is, sweetbreads, anchovies, sardines, shellfish, brains, meat extracts and meat gravy.

Aside from avoiding high purine foods, maintaining a healthy body weight is important for gout patients as well. Do consult a dietitian for personalised dietary advice and management.

ASHU SHARMA, DIETITIAN AND MEMBER OF THE SINGAPORE NUTRITION AND DIETETICS ASSOCIATION