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Alcohol and Gout - What You Need to Know

Gout is a medical condition that is characterized by repeated episodes of sudden joint stiffness, burning pain, and swelling, most commonly on the big toe. Over time, these episodes tend to recur and when this happens, it can lead to damage to the joints, tendons, and other tissues. Prompt management is essential if these are to be avoided.

Although the large joint of the big toe is usually affected, gout can also involve other joints in the body including the knees, ankles, feet, elbows, wrists, and hands. It frequently affects one joint at a time. In patients with long term and uncontrolled gout, it can affect multiple joints.

Gout is caused by elevated uric acid in the blood, but not all people with high uric acid levels develop gout. Gout seems to flare up without any specific reason.

Certain factors are known to trigger gout development such as obesity. A high purine diet or a diet that is rich in meat and seafood is another contributing factor. Other things that may increase uric acid in the body are certain medicines, rapid weight loss, chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and hypothyroidism.

It has been found that people who drink alcohol regularly may double their chances of developing gout. Researchers believe that although genes and environmental factors can lead to gout, constant alcohol consumption has caused an increase in cases of gout in the past three decades. Compared to other alcoholic beverages, beer contains much higher amounts of purines.

The researchers believe that alcohol consumption increases the risk of gout in a number of ways. Alcohol has high purine content which lead to an increased purine load. The digestive process then breaks down these purine compounds to form uric acid. When the uric acid is deposited in the joints, it leads to gout formation by stimulating an intense inflammatory reaction. The result is painful, red, and swollen joints.

Alcohol may also contribute to obesity, which in turn is associated with inadequate uric acid excretion.

To prevent gout, avoid fish, particularly anchovies, crab, mackerel, sardines, and shrimps. Other foods to avoid are meat, organ meats, and meat extracts. Individuals with a history of gout should avoid excessive alcohol consumption or refrain from drinking alcohol altogether.

A gout supplement with cherry extract can assist with the symptoms of gout and has helped many gout sufferers.