Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when too much uric acid builds up in the body, causing crystals to form in joints. The joints become inflamed and painful. Drinking too much alcohol or eating large amounts of dried beans, liver, meat, and shellfish can precipitate a gout flare. Many people report a gout trigger food that they are careful to avoid.
Though tomatoes are not considered a gout trigger, many patients claim that eating tomatoes promotes a gout flare. A study out of New Zealand, where gout is more common than anywhere else in the world, offered a connection between eating tomatoes and gout flares. Over 20% of the 2,000 people reported experiencing a gout attack after eating tomatoes.
Though this study was self-reported and observational, it did show a positive connection between eating tomatoes and serum uric acid levels. For those who suffer from gout, perhaps tomatoes need to be considered as a trigger food for some.
