Arthritis: 3 drinks linked to accumulation of “sharp crystals” in joints

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There is evidence that high purine levels in some drinks may increase the severity and likelihood of painful crystal formation in joints.

Gout, a subtype of arthritis, is caused by the accumulation of sharp crystals in the joints. According to several studies, certain beverages may contribute to this accumulation due to their high content of prunes.

When fructose is broken down, the body releases purines into the blood, which are closely related to the production of uric acid.

Sometimes your body produces too much uric acid or your kidneys excrete too little uric acid. When this happens, uric acid can build up, forming sharp, needle-like crystals in a joint or surrounding tissue that can cause pain, inflammation, and swelling.

The small crystals found in and around joints with gout can cause sudden attacks of acute pain, so it's important to treat the condition promptly.

Uric acid levels can rise after eating too many foods high in purines or taking medications such as diuretics, aspirin, and nicotinic acid.

Uric acid crystals can then form and build up in the joints. This causes painful inflammation. This is called gout.

Patients at risk of developing gout should avoid drinks high in purines.

A strong link has been found between flare-ups and beer or liquor consumption. It was found that spirits have the lowest purine content, while regular beer has the highest.

Another common culprit in gout is fructose, which is absorbed by the liver and causes a “rapid rise in uric acid levels.” Sugar-sweetened juices should be avoided.