The pain associated with gout can be extreme. Attacks can come on quickly and can stick around. This inflammatory arthritic condition is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the body. The build-up turns the acid into crystals that make it painful for joints, usually in the toes and feet, to move.
Certain foods and beverages can cause uric acid levels to increase in the blood, but is alcohol one of them? The short answer is yes. Alcohol contains purines, a compound that produces uric acid when it breaks down in the body.
Is alcohol safe to consume when you have gout?
Research shows drinking can substantially increase uric acid, which suggests a connection between alcohol consumption and gout pain. Some research actually suggests that drinking can double the risk of developing gout.
However, the amount of alcohol consumed is something to consider. Most research suggests that drinking more than a moderate amount of alcohol is the biggest threat to those with gout.
So, to answer, should you drink if you have gout? Having a drink or two is okay. Wine and beer have the lowest purine content, so stick with these options as opposed to hard liquor.
Can alcohol induce gout pain?
Drinking is one of the biggest triggers of gout flare-ups. Research suggests that it may be an even bigger problem for people who were diagnosed with early-onset gout, which means those who were diagnosed before the age of 40.
How much alcohol is okay to consume?
If you have gout, keep your drinking to a moderate level. A moderate level for women is up to one drink a day and for men, it’s up to two drinks a day.
There are many factors that can impact gout, drinking is one of them. It’s best to keep drinking to a minimum to prevent painful gout flare-ups.
