I have lived with gout for the past 5 years. I did a lot of research and self-testing, and got things under control about 3 years ago. Since then, I thankfully have not had any attacks. Along the way, I learned several interesting things that have made the journey easier. Hopefully this site can help others who are going through the same things that I did.
Getting Started
I was advised by my doctor and fellow gout sufferers that chicken and pork are safer than beef and seafood, but purine charts show that a chicken breast is 59% more purine-dense than a beef fillet. A pork chop has the same purine density as shrimp. What's happening here??... Read More →
Finding Answers
Why do gout attacks start at night? What is special about the foot and big toe? What causes the intense pain of a gout attack?... Read More →
Counting Purines
Research shows that higher purine contents do not always translate into higher uric acid levels or more gout attacks. I have been following a healty gout diet, and I'm happy to report that my attacks are far less frequent now. I learned that some foods contribute to the long-term buildup of uric acid crystals, while others increase the likelihood of an immediate attack... Read More →
Measuring What Matters
I have gone through days of frequent-interval testing and some of the results I found were surprising. For example, workouts and even hot showers increased my uric acid levels... and at least one of these increases is actually a good thing! Read More →
My Testing Equipment
I own both the EasyTouch Uric Acid Meter and the UAsure meter. Both have served me well. Every time I have have my uric acid tested by a lab, I also do a home test as well, and found... Read More →
Chicken vs Hamburger
