Gout affects a person when their body secrets too much uric acid. The result of this is the formation of crystals of the acid and their deposition in the joints. The flare-ups of this type of arthritis mostly affect the big toe and can last for anywhere between 7 and 10 days. If left untreated, gout can also lead to further complications and spread to other joints of the body.

It can be managed by taking medications and introducing gout-friendly foods in one’s diet. Generally, people with gout find it difficult to munch on a snack without triggering the symptoms. Here’s a list of snacks that are safe for people with gout, along with some ingredients that can be used to whip up a safe for gout patients:

• Tofu
  As a thumb rule, those with gout should look at reducing their meat consumption. One can opt for tofu instead. For a healthy snack, one can toss a salad and include a sufficient quantity of tofu in it, and add some spices and herbs for flavor and additional health benefits.
• Cherries
  The Arthritis Foundation states that there is sufficient evidence to prove that cherries help in preventing gout attacks. From fresh cherries to juices and even in the form of pills, cherries are known to reduce the frequency of flare-ups and alleviate the symptoms. Research shows that the presence of anthocyanin pigments, coupled with the rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties found in all kinds of red and purple berries, have benefitted people with gout. People with gout should certainly stock up on cherries!
• Coffee
  Unless one has other medication conditions, mild consumption of coffee, even it means a mug extra, is still permitted. For satisfying the hunger pangs, a strong cup of joe is a safe option that also reduces uric acid levels in the body.
• Dairy
  Low-fat milk and dairy products, along with soy milk, are safe snacks for gout patients, so one can blend skimmed milk with cherries to make a healthy smoothie. Alternatively, one can opt for fresh cottage cheese to satiate the mid-meal hunger.
• Low-purine vegetables and fruits
  Purines are produced naturally in the body and are broken down into uric acid. In addition, dietary sources also supply purines, leading to accumulation and crystallization of the acid, which triggers gout. To prevent flare-ups, one can opt for the following low-purine vegetables and fruits to make safe snacks for gout patients.
• Soup
  One can make vegetable broth that could last them for a few days. One could add either shrimp or oyster if they prefer seafood or any variety of poultry to the broth while making soup. No matter the ingredient, moderation is the key to making safe snacks for gout patients.