Gout & Beer – Do I Have to Give Up Beer If I Have Gout?

I know you don’t want to hear it… but it’s true, beer is really bad for gout. It’s full of purines, which increase the uric acid level in your body, which hardens and deposits uric acid crystals in your joints… you know the story!

OK, You Won’t Give Up Beer. So Now What?

If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you don’t want to give up your beer. You really should though. But, I’m not going to preach (I’m sure there are enough people telling you to stop drinking already!)

So if you are like me, and you don’t want to give up beer, you should at least take other precautions to insure that you don’t have another bout with gout! If you follow a diet low in purines and drink at least six bottles of water a day, there is a chance you will dodge the bullet!

A doctor will prescribe to you medication for the inflammation and pain. But, I personally am not comfortable with all the terrible side effects of these medications (i.e. stomach pain, bleeding, ulcers, abdominal cramps; diarrhea, nausea, vomiting…). I think prevention is a better way to go.

There are wonderful books and natural products available which will help you keep your gout at bay (a fair warning though… they’ll all advise you to give up beer!). These guides tell you which foods to avoid and which to eat in moderation. They talk about supplements and all natural remedies. There are loads and loads of information available.

Is There A Beer Low In Purines?

Wouldn’t it be great if they made a beer low in purines! They actually did in Japan. It’s called Kirin Tanrei Alpha Happoshu Beer. Don’t get too excited though, it is suppose to taste horrible!

Until they do make a good tasting beer low in purines, you should really give it up! I know, I know I’m preaching again! Anyways, if you don’t give up beer at least start eating a gout friendly diet and drink lots and lots of water.

Cheers!