Gout is a form of arthritis that is caused when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints. This causes the joint (most commonly your big toe joint) to become red, warm and very painful. Hippocrates called it “the disease of kings” because of its association with a rich diet. Actually, there are a number of factors that can contribute to gout, diet being just one part. A condition called hyperuricemia, which means elevated uric acid in your bloodstream, can lead to gout. Hyperuricemia occurs when the body produces too much uric acid (a by-product of the foods we eat) or the kidneys do not filter enough uric acid from the bloodstream.
Sometimes eating cherries has been know to help. Your physician can prescribe medication to ease the pain during an acctue gout attack. If you frequently suffer from gout, medications which lower your uric acid level are available as a preventative.
Links For More Information About Gout