Gout
Causes of Gout
Most of the uric acid in the bloodstream is filtered and disposed of in the urine. But when uric acid accumulates in the blood, it forms crystals that gravitate to the joints. Common causes of this buildup include the following:
- Being overweight
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Taking certain medications such as diuretics
- Eating too much meat, fish, or other foods which are high in purines
Purines are natural substances found in every cell of the body and present in most foods. Eating too many foods high in purines leads to the overproduction of uric acid. Foods high in purines include high-protein foods such as organ meat (liver, kidneys, sweetbreads); anchovies, sardines, and herring; legumes (dried beans, peas); consommé and gravies; mushrooms, spinach, asparagus and cauliflower; and beer and other alcoholic beverages.