Many of us love a cold beer now and then, sometimes more than one or two. But unfortunately for those with gout, overdoing the tasty brews can put you on the express train to Gout City.
Why Is Beer Bad For Gout?
Beer has long been known as a gout trigger because of its high levels of purine. The high purine content of beer comes from the brewer's yeast, which has about three times the purines of baker's yeast. So, when we combine beer's high purines with alcohol's ability to inhibit the elimination of uric acid...we get the perfect gout-causing beverage.
Beer drinking by itself does not cause gout; family history, genetics and overall health are more important than diet when it comes to how the body handles purines and uric acid. But beer and high-purine foods and drinks in general should be approached with caution by those who have experienced gout.
Personal Experience
I have realized that for me beer is the main cause of gout symptoms and attacks, see My Gout Story. These days if I have more than 2 beers I notice slight pain in my right knee at night and when waking up the next day. I now enjoy red wine in moderation, anything beyond 3 drinks can produce gout symptoms in my joints the next day.