Gout is a kind of arthritis which causes acute pain and tenderness in joints. The joint that is most commonly affected is the one at the base of the big toe. Gout is thought to be the most painful form of arthritis because of the way it will happen with no warning and intense pain. The big toe is the most common area to be affected but it can also be found in the knees, fingers, hips or other joints.A major change in diet is an important, if not primary, natural medicine for gout. Gout is seriously aggravated by purine foods, and may even be the sole reason for the gout. Some purine foods include organ meat, meat gravy, stock, mussels, herring, anchovies, shellfish, sardines, asparagus, and mushrooms. White flour, spinach, cauliflower, dried beans, poultry, and sugar may also need to be avoided, being somewhat high in purine. Alcohol, especially beer, is very high in purines and must also be avoided, unless you can compensate with drinking much water along with the beverages to keep acid from building up in your system. Replace these foods with fruits, berries, vegetables, whole grains, and especially wheat grass.