Q. My husband is a meat-and-potatoes guy. About twice a year he has a painful attack of gout. His doctor told him he needs to change his diet, because he is at risk for a heart attack. What is the connection between gout and a heart attack?
A
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals are deposited in the joints. Uric acid production occurs during the breakdown of purines found in certain foods and beverages. These are normally eliminated through urine, but if you consume too many purines, or your kidneys can’t handle the load, excess uric acid may end up in your joints.
To continue reading this article or issue you must be a paid subscriber. Sign in
Subscribe to Heart Advisor
Get the next year of Heart Advisor for just $20. And access all of our online content - over 2,000 articles - free of charge.
Subscribe today and save 38%. It's like getting 5 months FREE!
