I have been having occasional problems with my left big toe for about 4 months or so.

Occasionally it is quite painful to walk and put pressure on that toe. The toe is clearly a bit larger than on my right foot, but perhaps that's normal.

I have read quite a bit online about gout, but everything I've read mentions redness, which I've never experienced. Also, I'm not *that* overweight (male, 5'9", 185lbs). Much of what I read also indicates that a "meaty" diet contributes to gout, but I eat mostly fruit, greens, beans, and nuts.

I also looked up some info on bunions, but I don't have any protrusion on my toe.

I do have arthritis (mostly in my hands & wrists), which I've been suffering for about 4-5 years now. I'm not sure if this makes me more at risk.

Anyone have any other ideas what this might be?

Thanks,
Adam

Number one, it doesn't have to be red to be gout. Number two, you don;t have to be overweight to have gout. Try eating 20 canned tart pie cherries (not pie filling but the whole cherries) a day for one week. If it goes away, it's gout.

Number one, it doesn't have to be red to be gout. Number two, you don;t have to be overweight to have gout. Try eating 20 canned tart pie cherries (not pie filling but the whole cherries) a day for one week. If it goes away, it's gout.


Ironically, I used to take a tart cherry supplement for my arthritis, but stopped taking it because of the cost. I always debate whether or not to start taking them again; now I guess I have an additional reason.

Unfortunately, I can't stomach tart cherries on their own. I just can't tolerate any sour foods, and tart cherries are *very* sour.

Anyhow, thanks for the advice.
-Adam

I know...I hate them too! I would gobble them all down in about 3 spoonfuls and then wash them down some other flavor drink. You can buy unsweetened natural cherry juice at the health food store if you would rather try that. From what I've read though, the cherries themselves work better....but the juice would be worth a try.