What Foods Can Cause a Gout Flare-Up?

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden, severe joint pain—often in the big toe. These flare-ups happen when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. Normally, the body filters out uric acid through the kidneys, but some gout trigger foods can interfere with this process. People prone to gout can often reduce attacks by avoiding or limiting high-purine foods and sugary drinks.

1. Red meat

Some meats are high in purines, which the body breaks down into uric acid. Too much uric acid in the bloodstream can trigger gout attacks. Red meat contains more purines than white meat, and lamb is especially problematic. People trying to avoid gout flare-ups should limit beef and pork to no more than three meals a week. If you do eat lamb, choose chops over leg meat, which tends to have a higher purine concentration.