Chocolate Is Bad For Gout Arthritis

Chocolate, particularly the dark type is indeed good for the heart. It is rich in flavonoids which are also known as antioxidants. Unfortunately, chocolate cannot be good for individuals who have gout arthritis.

There are about a hundred types of arthritis. Gout arthritis also known as 'the rich man's disease' is probably one of the most popular among the numerous types. While gout arthritis can be hereditary, bad lifestyle habits can also cause this disease. Gout arthritis usually affects the big toe as gout means 'podagra'. However, gout arthritis can also attack the knees, fingers etc. Gout arthritis is characterized by

Gout arthritis is often treated with NSAIDS like mefenamic, diclofenac, ibuprofen etc. If it becomes severe, corticosteroids like prednisone, methylprednisolone and dexamethasone are added to the treatment. Corticosteroids however, are given in a limited time only. With high uric acid, patients are also treated with antigout medications like colchicine or allopurinol with the maximum period of one month. The uric levels in the blood are tested after a

Doctors usually instruct patients to avoid purine rich foods. Among these foods include sardines, nuts, asparagus, roe, bouillon, gravy etc. Patients are also warned in having too much chocolate in their diet.

Chocolate especially, the dark type, maybe beneficial because of its high flavonoid content, unfortunately, a dark chocolate also possess elevated levels of theobromine – an alkaloid structurally similar to caffeine. Theobromine is known to have a high concentration of uric acid.
The good news, moderation is still the key. An individual who is likely to have a gout arthritis attack may still enjoy a piece of chocolate as long as he consumes it in moderation. If currently suffering from the disease though, chocolate should be avoided.

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Reference:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/305186-foods-containing-high-amounts-of-uric-acid/

Related article:

• Low-purine Diet Food Guide