Gout is a common type of arthritis, which usually arises because of the presence of a high degree of uric acid in the blood. An excessive degree of uric acid presence can cause a buildup of fluids in the area around the joints. It can lead to the formation of uric acid crystals. These crystal formations can cause swelling in joints, followed by intense pain.

Lifestyle changes to manage gout
The good thing is that gout can be managed by some medication, lifestyle changes, and dietary changes. Let us take a look at a few lifestyle changes that will help lower the effects of gout.

Reduce your stress levels
Stress is a common trigger of a gout attack. It can flare-up the symptoms of gout in people. Of course, you cannot completely get rid of stress in your life. However, there are a few ways to manage or minimize it. When you reduce your stress levels, you have one less thing to worry about, which is a gout attack.

Avoid food triggers
At all times, you should consume a diet that can prevent you from gout. Anyone who consumes a diet rich in items, such as red meat, seafood, and sugary beverages, tends to experience a gout attack. It is primarily because these food items have high purine content. Thus, it would be best if you stop the consumption of:

• Bacon
• Organ meats, such as liver, kidney, sweetbreads, and heart
• Turkey
• Lamb
• Venison
• Anchovies, herring, sardines, and smelt
• Scallops and mussels
• Tuna, codfish, haddocks, mackerel, and trout
• Yeast
• Soda
• Fruit juices
• Liquor, wine, and beer

Stay physically active
Being physically active is an essential part of staying healthy. It can also help you prevent a gout attack. Exercising will also help you shed some weight. Being overweight is a common risk factor of gout. So, if you have gout, a well-maintained weight can help prevent any triggers. Moreover, exercise helps in managing stress. However, if you are undergoing a gout attack, you must not work out until your inflammation and pain are maintained. If you have not exercised in a long time, you should speak to your doctor and then decide on the exercises. Keep your doctor in the loop if you experience any new symptoms. It is a necessary lifestyle change to manage gout.

Get adequate sleep and rest
Sleep and rest are essential when you have gout. When you sleep for at least eight hours every night, you will feel better equipped to manage your overall stress levels. Getting adequate rest is also crucial during the time you are experiencing an attack. Unfortunately, the gout attack gets painful. In some people, even moving becomes difficult. So, giving adequate rest to the affected joint will help you relieve the symptoms.

Curtail sugar consumption
Excessive intake of sugary foods and fructose-rich items can directly affect the uric acid level in the body. Additionally, the amount of calories in sugar is high, resulting in a higher possibility of gout.