Purines are naturally occurring compounds that are present in your cells and in a variety of foods, particularly organ meats. Upon metabolizing, purines break down into uric acid, which in excess can cause gout, kidney stones and kidney failure.

Gout is a painful condition that occurs when uric acid builds up in the joints, according to the National Institute of Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Gout is caused by having higher than normal levels of uric acid due to too much production or problems with elimination.

Gout is the most common inflammatory disease among men and affects women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms can appear in flare-ups called gout "attacks" or they can become chronic. In addition to medical treatment, when needed, an appropriate diet can help you manage your symptoms.

The breakdown of foods high in protein into chemicals known as purines are responsible for the production of uric acid in the body.

A swollen toe that is stiff and hard can result from a variety of causes. A common problem is gout, which is a form of arthritis that commonly affects the big toe. Trauma and strain from overuse can damage the bones, tendons and ligaments of the big toe, leading to swelling and hardness.

Gout patients must avoid foods high in the organic chemical purine to prevent outbreaks. Purine increases uric acid in the body, which can crystallize in the joints and cause gout attacks. Some high-protein foods, such as meats, seafood and poultry, are purine rich, but most protein-shake ingredients are not.

Gout used to be associated with the high life, believed to be most common among men who could afford to eat and drink too much of the best of everything. It is now known that people with gout, the most common type of inflammatory arthritis in men over 40, have a "metabolic glitch"

Gout is a disorder in which uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints. The sharp edges of these crystals irritate the soft tissue of the joints, and cause inflammation and pain. Uric acid crystals are the waste products formed when purines, which are part of the nucleic acids that make up the genes, break down.

Whey protein is a type of nutritional supplement made from cow's milk and is used by athletes to aid in muscle recovery following intense bouts of resistance training. Whey is also promoted as a general health supplement to help prevent or correct a protein deficiency in your diet.

Uric acid is a component normally found in the blood at low levels. Under certain circumstances, the level of uric acid in the blood can rise and stay at high levels. This causes several health problems, including joint pain.

A byproduct of protein consumption, uric acid, one of the agents contributing to symptoms of gout, can be controlled without drugs by changes in diet. Uric acid is eliminated from the blood stream into the kidneys and then excreted normally.

Uric acid is a compound produced by your body that contains carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and hydrogen. It forms salts called urates. Uric acid is created when your body breaks down purine nucleotides, a crystallized substance that is considered a building block of DNA.