Best Protein Powders for Gout Sufferers in 2023

Understanding Gout and Protein Powder

Gout is a common form of inflammatory arthritis caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. This condition causes sudden attacks of severe pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints, often the big toe. While gout cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed through medications and lifestyle changes like diet.

For those with gout, paying attention to diet is crucial for keeping uric acid levels in check. This means limiting foods high in purines, a compound that breaks down into uric acid. It also means staying well hydrated and getting adequate nutrients. This is where protein powder can come into play.

Benefits of Protein Powder for Gout Sufferers

High quality protein powders offer gout patients several advantages:

• Protein powders are low purine foods, so they typically do not exacerbate gout or raise uric acid levels.
• The protein helps support muscle mass and prevent unwanted weight loss during gout flares when diet is restricted.
• Protein powders are convenient, portable options to supplement diet when cooking or eating whole foods is difficult.
• Powders help gout suffers stay well hydrated by allowing easy mixing with water or milk.

Choosing the Best Protein Powder

Not all protein powders are created equal when it comes to gout. Here are some factors to consider:

• Protein Source - Whey and plant proteins like pea are low purine choices. Avoid higher purine options like soy or beef protein.
• Ingredients - Select unflavored options with minimal added sugars, which can raise uric acid.
• Mixability - Powders that dissolve thoroughly in liquids are best to promote good hydration.

5 Best Protein Powders for Gout

Based on the above criteria, below are 5 of the top protein powders for gout suffers:

1. Designer Whey Gout Protein

This whey protein isolate was developed specifically with gout patients in mind. It delivers 20g protein per serving with less than 1% sugar and fat. The powder mixes smoothly without clumping. Available in 3 naturally flavored options - vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.

2. Garden of Life Sport Plant-Based Protein

Made from pea, potato, and alfalfa proteins, this certified USDA organic powder provides clean plant-based nutrition. With 20g protein and 2g sugar per scoop, it supports muscle recovery without spiking blood sugar or uric acid. The vanilla powder has a neutral, unsweetened taste.

3. Nutiva Organic Hemp Protein

Hemp protein offers an additional plant-based choice for gout suffers looking to limit dairy. This powder delivers 15g protein and 10g fiber per serving with no added sugar. The nutty flavor works well blended into smoothies or shakes.

4. Isopure Zero Carb Unflavored

For those who tolerate dairy well, this zero carb whey protein isolate is a solid choice. With 25g protein and no sugars or fillers, it provides pure nutrition in an easily digestible form. The unflavored powder is versatile for adding to foods or beverages.

5. NOW Pea Protein Unflavored

Rounding out our list is an affordable unflavored pea protein made by a trusted supplement brand. Providing 24g mildly flavored pea protein per scoop with no added sugar or fat, this powder dissolves well in liquids for a lump-free drink.

Is Whey or Plant Protein Better for Gout?

Both whey and plant-based protein powders can be appropriate choices for gout patients depending on individual factors. Considerations include:

Benefits of Whey Protein

• Often contains more protein per serving than plant-based varieties
• Tends to be more affordable and widely available
• Easy to digest and absorb for most people

Benefits of Plant Protein

• Less common triggers for those sensitive to dairy proteins
• May be easier on kidneys which must filter excess uric acid
• Suitable option for vegans or those avoiding dairy

Ultimately there is no universally "better" option. Pay attention to how you feel when ingesting different protein sources to determine personal tolerance and optimal nutrition.

Incorporating Protein Powders Into a Gout Diet

Protein powders can be a healthy addition to an anti-gout diet, but they should not dominate it. Whole foods should make up the majority of intake to obtain fullest nutrition. Some simple ways to add powders include:

Breakfast Protein Smoothies

Blend protein powder into a smoothie with low sugar fruits like berries and anti-inflammatory fats like almond butter or avocado.

Energy Bites

Mix powders into homemade energy bites with oats, nut butter, and dried fruit for an on-the-go high protein snack.

Protein-Packed Soups

Whisk a scoop into bone broths or high fiber vegetable soups to increase protein without excess purines.

Side of Steamed Milk

For a simple protein boost, blend powder into heated almond milk for a creamy, comforting beverage.

Other Important Diet Tips for Gout Suffers

While protein powder offers benefits, supporting overall gout management requires comprehensive dietary changes. Other key guidelines include:

• Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily to flush uric acid
• Limit alcohol and sugary drinks which interfere with uric acid excretion
• Reduce high purine foods like red meats, seafood, and high fat dairy products
• Eat more fruits and vegetables, especially vitamin C-rich options, which support uric acid elimination
• Incorporate anti-inflammatory fats like olive oil and nuts to reduce joint swelling
• Avoid rapid weight loss which can trigger uric acid buildup

Consult a registered dietician or nutritionist to develop a personalized anti-gout diet you sustain long-term.

The Takeaway

Adding protein powder to your diet can benefit gout management by increasing protein intake from low purine sources without excess sugar or carbs. Stick with whey or plant-based options that mix well. Aim to incorporate powders as part of balanced anti-gout diet focused on optimal hydration and nutrition.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.