Gout is a general term that describes a wide variety of conditions that are caused by uric acid buildup. Usually, this affects the feet. Gout is characterized by pain and swelling in the joints of the feet, particularly on the big toe. Gout attacks or sudden intense pains can create the illusion of the feet being on fire. A wide variety of factors play a significant role in causing gout. Drinking too much alcohol and a couple of medical conditions can result in the production of too much uric acid by the body. Gout can also be caused by the body being unable to properly eliminate uric acid. Starving and dehydration can make it quite difficult for the body to excrete uric acid causing it build up as deposits in the joints. The ability of the body to eliminate uric acid can also be hindered by certain medications …show more content…
According to Dr. Bill Releford of the Releford Foot and Ankle Institute, gout is hereditary. As a matter of fact, people with parents suffering from gout are at a 20% higher risk of developing it. Here are some suggestions on 5 things you can avoid to prevent yourself from contracting gout:
High Purine Food
Foods such as red meat and shellfish are considerably high in purine and should be avoided since they can increase the chances of developing gout. Instead, go for a low fat and low cholesterol diet. Much as some types of beans have a high-purine composition, the risk for developing gout in this way is relatively low.
Alcohol
One surefire way to avoid developing gout is by minimizing alcohol intake. While alcohol does not contain purine, its metabolism retains uric acid in the blood, preventing it from getting eliminated. And because alcohol dehydrates the body, it is also able to promote uric acod accumulation in the body.