One of the most common locations for gout inflammation to occur is the metatarsal-phalangeal joint, located at the base of the big toe. Although this joint is small, big toe gout can produce significant pain that makes it difficult for its victims to walk, work, drive, and perform other daily tasks. 

Gout also affects other parts of the body, including the ankle, knee, wrist, and finger joints. It usually comes on suddenly, and characteristically strikes only one joint at a time. Inflamed joints often swell to double their size and are often covered by hot, red, sensitive skin. 

Gout Prevention

The good news about gout is that it can sometimes be prevented. Often referred to as a "rich man's disease", gout is frequently the consequence of dangerous behavioral choices, including unhealthy eating, alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle. Consider the following lifestyle recommendations as a way to prevent gout.

Limit Purine-Rich Foods

Purine-rich foods have been linked to the development of gout, including red meat, fatty meat, processed meat, organ meat, some types of fish, and some cheeses. Vegetables that contain purine include asparagus, peas, mushrooms, cauliflower, spinach, and beans. Depending on the individual, these foods may or may not be enjoyed in moderation. Avoid over-consumption of these and other purine-rich foods which may lead to an overabundance of uric acid in the blood. 

Limit Alcohol, Coffee, and Cola Intake

Beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages have been associated with the development of gout. Avoid alcohol, or drink it in moderation, to avoid uric acid buildup. Brown cola and coffee have also been associated with gout problems. Avoid overindulgence in gout-promoting beverages and drink plenty of water instead. 

Eat and Drink to Prevent Gout

Water aids in gout prevention by flushing excess uric acid from the body. Consume 8-10 glasses of water per day for optimum results. Consume a diet low in purine-rich foods. Healthy choices include whole grains, berries, cherries, grapes, cucumbers, carrots, and celery.

Keep Kidneys Healthy

Since the kidneys are responsible for filtering uric acid from the blood, they need to be kept in optimum condition to protect the body from urate crystal formation. Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet to help maintain kidney function. If kidney disease or stones develop, seek medical attention immediately to help correct the problem and minimize the chance of gout development.

Stay Healthy

People with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and significant amounts of abdominal fat are more likely to develop gout. Monitor fat and caloric intake, exercise regularly, avoid over-exertion and stress, and establish a relationship with a doctor for yearly preventative care.

Medication

Allopurinol is a drug that actually reduces the amount of uric acid in a person's bloodstream. If uric acid cannot be kept under control through other behavioral measures alone, consider asking for a prescription.