Although seafood is often considered a health food, certain fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and sardine are promoted for their anti-inflammatory omega-3 properties. However, shellfish such as shrimp are usually not listed. In addition to high levels of cholesterol, seafood can actually cause or exacerbate an arthritis called gout.
(Source: Jupiterimages / Photos.com / Getty Images) Editor's Note: This article was reviewed by MD Korcik, MD.
Gout is the most common form of male inflammatory arthritis affecting only about 3.4 million in the United States.
New England Journal of Medicine, 2004 study.
General symptoms Arthritis
Arthritis is a joint inflammation. It may affect one or more joints, which may be short-term or long-term. It can be very painful, symptoms such as:
• Pain • Swelling • Stiffness (especially in the morning) • Limited movement • Redness around the joints • Warmth around the joints
[123 Gout[ 123] Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis in men and affects approximately 3.4 million in the United States alone (New England Journal of Medicine, 2004). It occurs when uric acid accumulates in the blood. Formation of uric acid crystals, resulting in inflammation of the joints. It may be chronic, and over time it will suddenly affect one or more joints, or acute, usually affecting one joint.
Symptoms of gout include:
• Frequent sudden onset of pain develops at night, may feel irritated or crushed • Red, warm and/or tender joints • Occasional fever [ 123]
The attack may subside after a few days, but the probability of another episode is about 50%. Some people may experience chronic gout, which can lead to stiffness and reduced range of motion.Some risks that may increase gout include:
• Diabetes • Obesity • Kidney disease • Sickle cellsAnemia (and other types of anemia) • Leukemia and other blood cancers
High protein foods are also associated with increased risk of gout. People with gout usually recommend avoiding foods rich in cockroaches, such as:
• Meat • Seafood • Vegetables rich in glutinous rice such as peas, beans, lentils, spinach, mushrooms and coffee. Uliflower•Animal Protein
Research
A 2004 study examined the risk of gout in meat, seafood and dairy products. During the 12-year study period, the researchers tracked 47,150 men from follow-up studies of health professionals who had no history of gout and noted new cases, using questionnaires to determine whether participants met the American College of Rheumatology gout survey criteria.
The diet was assessed every four years through the Food Frequency Questionnaire. During the study, 730 new cases were confirmed. Higher meat and seafood intake is associated with increased risk, while higher dairy intake is associated with lower gout risk.
Bottom Line
You don't have to swear that shrimp or shellfish are complete, but it may be beneficial to have a modest intake of ke in a balanced diet (including dairy products). And continue to eat your vegetables. Be sure to contact your doctor before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.
About the author
Jessica Cording is a health and nutrition writer with a master's degree in nutrition and nutrition.
