Gout may sound like an old-fashioned ailment from the history books, but it's more common than you might think. It's a type of arthritis that can cause sudden and severe pain, often in the big toe, but it can affect other joints too. Let's dive into what gout is, what causes it, how to spot it, and what you can do to manage it, including some tips for a gout-friendly diet. What is Gout? Gout is a form of arthritis that happens when there's too much uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a waste product that's normally dissolved in your blood and passed out through your kidneys in your pee. But if your body makes too much uric acid or doesn't get rid of it fast enough, it can build up and form sharp, needle-like crystals in your joints. Ouch! Symptoms of Gout: - Intense Pain: Gout can cause sudden, severe pain that can make even the lightest touch feel like agony. It usually comes on fast, often at night, and can make your joint feel hot, swollen, and super tender...