Gout is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis in men greater than 40 years of age. Women may develop gout later in life, and in women it is more likely to involve the upper extremities. People with gout, a form of arthritis, or specific types of kidney stone, are advised to avoid foods high in a natural compound called purines to help lower blood levels of uric acid. High purine foods can raise uric acid levels in the body. You do not need to avoid all foods with purines, only those highest in purines and control your intake of