

However, research shows that high-purine plant foods do not trigger gout attacks. Some vegetables, legumes, and beans also contain purines. This can increase the chance of having a gout attack ( 5).įoods with moderate-to-high amounts of purines include organ meats, red meats, certain types of seafood, alcohol and beer ( 11, 12). Thus, a diet high in foods that increase uric acid levels may let uric acid accumulate. However, people with gout can’t efficiently remove excess uric acid. This is not a concern for people without gout, as they efficiently remove excess uric acid from the body. When you digest purines, your body makes uric acid as a waste product ( 10). Many trigger foods are high in purines, a substance found naturally in foods. Following a diet that limits certain meats, alcohol, beer, and sugar may help you manage gout. Some foods may trigger a flare by raising your uric acid levels.

This may include making changes to your diet and taking medications that can help prevent gout attacks ( 9). If you have gout, your doctor can help you develop a treatment plan to manage your flares. It happens when there is too much uric acid in the blood, causing it to deposit in the joints as crystals. Gout is a type of arthritis that involves sudden pain, swelling and inflammation of the joints. Other factors such as diet also play a role ( 7, 8). Research suggests that gout is caused by several different genes. This lets uric acid accumulate, crystallize and settle in the joints. Most people who have the condition experience these symptoms because their bodies can’t remove the excess uric acid efficiently. Gout attacks typically occur at night and last 3–10 days ( 6). This process triggers swelling, inflammation and intense pain ( 5).

When uric acid levels are high, crystals of it can accumulate in your joints. It’s also produced when you digest certain foods. Uric acid is a waste product that your body makes naturally. Gout symptoms or “attacks” occur when there is too much uric acid in the blood.

Other parts of your body can also be affected, but it’s less common ( 3, 4, 5). Most cases of gout affect the big toe, but the condition can also affect your other toes, foot, knee or heel.
