Gout is an arthritic condition that typically causes intense pain in the affected joints. Diet plays a major role in the development of gout symptoms. While most forms of alcoholic beverages increase your risk of gout attacks, beer tends to pose the highest risk, although the specific reason for this remains unknown, according to Dr. Theodore R. Fields, a physician with the Hospital for Special Surgery.
Hops
Hops provide the main flavoring agent in beer. This ingredient comes from the Humulus lupulus plant, a native plant of North America, Asia and Europe. The strobiles, or fruiting bodies, supply the portion of the plant that goes into beers, teas and certain herbal products. Hops contain humulone and lupulone, the two primary constituents that impart a bitter flavor in beer. Traditional medicinal uses include the treatment of insomnia, upset stomach, sexual neuroses and muscle spasms, although there is insufficient scientific evidence to support these potential benefits.
Gout
Gout mainly affects men over the age of 40, although anyone can experience this disorder. A family history of gout and high levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of developing this type of arthritis. The swelling and inflammation of gout occur when uric acid crystals accumulate in your joints, usually the largest joint in your big toe. Symptoms usually begin suddenly, causing extreme pain in the affected joint. During a gout attack, you may run a fever as high as 102.2 Fahrenheit.
Diet
The foods and beverages you consume can increase the likelihood of experiencing a gout attack. Foods that contain purines can lead to an increase in uric acid. The uric acid that your body fails to excrete accumulates to form crystals that build up around your joints. Foods that contain high amount of purine include meats, yeast, fish and shellfish. Consuming alcohol, especially beer, also promotes the formation of uric acid crystals, leading to an increased risk of a gout attack. According to Harvard Medical School, research indicates that beer drinkers sharply increase their risk for gout, although wine drinkers show no increased risk. Some researchers believe that the purines in beer contribute to the different risk factors from different forms of alcohol.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you experience symptoms of gout. Certain factors, such as medications and cancer, can lead to gout attacks. If you have a family or personal history of gout, avoid drinking too much alcohol, especially beer, and consuming foods with a high purine content.
