WHAT CAUSES GOUT?
Gout is caused by an excess of uric acid (a waste product made by the body). The uric acid forms crystals that collect in the joints, bringing on a gout attack. If you have many gout attacks, crystals may form large deposits called tophi. Tophi can dame joints and cause deformity.

WHO IS AT RISK FOR GOUT?
Men are more likely to have gout than women. But women can also be affected, mostly after menopause. Some health problems, such as obesity and high cholesterol, make gout more likely. And some medications, such as diuretics (“water pills”), can trigger a gout attack. People who drink a lot of alcohol are at risk for gout. Certain foods can also trigger a gout attack.

FOODS THAT TRIGGER A GOUT ATTACK.
To help prevent a gout attack, avoid these foods:
• Alcohol (beer, red wine).
• Certain meats (red meat, processed meat, turkey).
• Organ meats (kidney, liver, sweetbread).
• Shellfish (lobster, crab, shrimp, herring, mackerel).