The "Myth of the Diet" — Modern Nutritional Advice
In 2026, the UK Gout Society and British Dietetic Association (BDA) have updated their stance on "gout diets." While traditional advice focused heavily on avoiding specific foods (the "rich man's disease" myth), modern evidence suggests that dietary changes alone only lower urate levels by about 10–15%.
Primary Advice: Focus on a healthy, balanced (Mediterranean-style) diet and weight management rather than extreme purine restriction.
The "Cherry" Effect: While some evidence supports cherries/vitamin C, they are seen as adjuncts, not replacements for ULT.
Fluid Intake: Water remains the most critical "dietary" intervention to aid renal clearance of uric acid.
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