What Causes Gout and Why Should You Care?
Let’s talk about gout and what causes it. There are many factors that can contribute to the development of gout, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and diet. For instance, if you have a family history of gout, you may be more likely to develop it yourself. Likewise, if you drink alcohol regularly, eat a lot of red meat and seafood, or are overweight or obese, you may be at higher risk of developing gout.
But why should you care about preventing gout? Well, for one thing, gout can be incredibly painful and debilitating. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic joint damage and deformity. Additionally, having gout puts you at a higher risk of other forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing gout or experiencing flare-ups. One important factor is maintaining a healthy diet that is low in purines. This means limiting your intake of red meat, organ meats like liver and kidney, shellfish like shrimp and lobster, and alcohol. On the other hand, there are many foods that are safe and even beneficial for people with gout. For instance, cherries may help reduce inflammation associated with gout flares. Low-fat dairy products like milk and yogurt may also help prevent the build-up of uric acid in your blood.
By understanding what causes gout and making smarter food choices as part of an overall healthy lifestyle plan, you can take control of your health and prevent painful flare-ups from occurring in the first place!