Fructose-rich beverages and the risk of gout
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine examined the relationship and reported a “modest” increase in risk.
First, the details.
- 78,906 women with no history of gout provided information on their intake of beverages using validated food frequency questionnaires.
- These women were participants in the Nurses’ Health Study, which spanned 22 years (1984-2006).
- Cases of gout that met the American College of Rheumatology criteria were recorded.
And, the results.
- There were 778 cases of gout were reported.
- Sugar
- Compared with the drinking less than 1 serving per month of sugar-sweetened soda, drinking 1 or at least 2 servings per day was associated with a significant 1.74- and 2.39-fold increased risk for gout, respectively.
- Orange juice
- Drinking orange juice was associated with a significant 1.41- and 2.42-fold increased risk, respectively.
- Diet drinks
- Drinking diet soft drinks was not associated with the risk for gout.
- Fructose
- Compared with the lowest fructose intake, the risk for gout in women with the highest intake was a significant 1.62.
- This indicates a risk difference of 28 cases per 100,000 person-years.
The bottom line?
The authors concluded, “Consumption of fructose-rich beverages is associated with an increased risk of incident gout, although… the risk of gout … is likely modest given the low incidence rate among women.”
The overall negative health effect of fructose is expected to be larger in women with a history of gout.
The authors explain that fructose induces uric acid production by increasing the reaction of adenosine triphosphate (ATP; stores chemical energy) to adenosine monophosphate (AMP), which is precursor to making uric acid.
11/19/10 19:25 JR
