Gout can occur as a result of the accumulation of uric acid in the bone joints. It is known to trigger when certain foods that increase the uric acid levels in the bloodstream are consumed. In many cases, gout can simply be avoided by avoiding certain types of foods and beverages.

Below are the foods that are must-avoid for those facing the painful pangs of gout.

Red meat
Red meat contains high levels of purine that increase the levels of uric acid in the kidneys, thus letting it into the bloodstream. Uric acid then accumulates at the joints causing painful episodes of gout. Red meats from venison, bison, pork, lamb, and beef are to be completely avoided to stay away from gout. People who want to eat meat can stick to chicken and duck rather than the above-mentioned types of meat.

Organ meats
Organ meats such as heart, liver, kidneys, sweetbreads (or pancreas), and lungs, from pork, lamb, beef, and chicken have high purine content in them, which spike the uric acid levels in the body and induce a gout attack. These foods must be avoided at all costs for a gout free lifestyle.

Seafood
Reducing the overall consumption of seafood is advised to prevent gout attacks. Seafood, in general, have varying levels of purine content present. However, there are certain seafood such as anchovies, codfish, haddock, herrings, mussels, sardines, scallops, and shellfish have high to moderate levels of purine are to be avoided completely to avoid gout.

High-purine vegetables and mushrooms
Vegetables such as asparagus, cauliflower, spinach, kale, and mushrooms contain high levels of purine which can trigger a gout attack. However, research has shown that patients tend to eliminate purines from vegetables better than the purines from consumed from meats, organs, and seafood. So it is advised to consume very less of these vegetables if not avoided completely.

Foods that contain high amounts of sugar
Foods that are high in fructose such as sweetened yogurt, salad dressing, instant dinner packs, granola bars, breakfast cereals, snack foods, preserved sauces, frozen junk foods, white bread, canned fruits, pastries, cakes, candies, ice creams and jellies increase the uric acid levels in the bloodstream causing uric acid to deposit on the joints spurring a gout attack. All kinds of foods that high in fructose are to be avoided to live a gout-free life.

Sodas and drinks with high sugar
Sodas, sugared drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, canned fruit juices, soft drinks, and any drinks that contain sweet corn syrups that are high in fructose are to be avoided as they release purines in the kidneys, which in turn increase the uric acid levels in the body.

Alcohol and beer
Beer or alcohol are known to significantly increase uric acid levels in the body, which can accumulate in the joints causing gout attacks. Avoiding beer and liquors can also help increase the overall health of the body.