A study conducted by Chinese researchers and published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition showed that some drinks may be associated with an increased risk of gout and high levels of uric acid in the blood, while other drinks were associated with a lower risk.
The researchers analyzed 52 scientific studies that examined the relationship between beverage consumption and gout, and found that alcohol consumption is associated with an 81% increased risk of the disease and a 52% increased risk of high uric acid in the blood.
Consuming drinks sweetened with added sugar was also associated with a 37% increased risk of gout and a 48% increase in uric acid levels.
In contrast, the results showed that drinking coffee is associated with a 46% lower probability of developing gout, noting that the risk tends to decrease as consumption increases.
As for tea, the study revealed a different result for women, as its consumption was associated with a 29% increased risk of high uric acid levels. However, the researchers emphasized the need for further studies to confirm this result.
The researchers confirmed that the choice of daily drinks may be an important factor in reducing the risk of gout, but the results show statistical correlations and do not prove that these drinks directly cause or prevent the disease.
Gout is an inflammatory disease caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood and the formation of crystals within the joints, which leads to sudden attacks of severe pain, swelling, and redness. It often affects the joint at the base of the big toe.
