Stress can cause Gout

by Adam West
(Atlanta, GA USA)

You are accurate in your assessment. I have had a few bouts with Gout in the last five years and started doing research on the causes and keeping records of my history of flair ups. After avoiding shellfish completely (high in purines) and limiting or deleting other foods that cause Gout, I was able to determine my primary cause of Gout.
My records documenting the dates and severity of Gout confirmed for me that my primary trigger of Gout is stress. My history showed that I once had a flair up in December do to financial stress of the holidays. Another time I had a bout during the loss of 2 loved ones in a one week period. I had about once during a stressful trip in which I had to drive more than 12 hours to my destination. Finally, I can confirm your theory on alcohol, as I once had 2 minor bouts in 6 month period in which I abstained from any drinking. Job related stress may have also contributed to the problem with Gout. I advise anyone with Gout problems to exercise as much as possible to help control stress in your life.